Australian captain Pat Cummins is on the verge of a dramatic return for the second Test of the Ashes series at the Gabba. Following his absence in the series opener due to a back injury sustained during the winter tour of the West Indies, Cummins is expected to be declared fit ahead of the crucial match on March 7, 2024. His return is particularly significant as Usman Khawaja has been ruled out due to injury, paving the way for Josh Inglis to step into the squad.
Cummins has been actively participating in training, having bowled extensively and batted in the nets during the team’s session on March 5. Initially excluded from the squad for the second Test, his recent form has raised optimism about his inclusion in the starting eleven. If fit, Cummins is likely to replace Brendan Doggett, who made his debut in the first Test.
Steve Smith, the stand-in captain, noted that the final decision on the team will be made after assessing the pitch conditions at 3pm local time on March 6. Smith expressed confidence in Cummins’ performance, stating, “He looks pretty good to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets. Obviously, games are a different intensity, but he is tracking really nicely.”
With Khawaja out, Inglis is set to make his first Test appearance on home soil, likely batting in the middle order. Travis Head will continue to open the batting, filling in for Khawaja. Inglis had previously been a strong contender for selection, especially following his impressive debut century in Sri Lanka earlier this year. He has played three Tests, averaging 29.75 without converting starts into significant scores.
Inglis’ extensive training in the slips, where Khawaja typically fields, signals his imminent selection. Known for his aggressive batting style, Inglis could provide much-needed firepower after Australia’s challenging first innings performance in Perth. Smith remarked, “If he gets his opportunity, I am sure he will do really well for us. He plays fast bowling really nicely.”
The situation surrounding Khawaja remains uncertain. His inability to recover in time for the second Test raises questions about his future in the series. Smith acknowledged Khawaja’s contributions, stating, “Usman has been a quality player over a long period of time. Anyone that plays over 80 Tests is a good cricketer.” Nonetheless, his fitness and place in the lineup may be contingent on the selectors’ assessment after this match.
As Australia looks to build on their success in the first Test and secure a 2-0 series lead, the return of Cummins could be pivotal. The day-night Test promises to be a crucial battleground in the ongoing Ashes series, with both teams eager to assert their dominance.
The anticipation builds as fans and players alike await the final team announcement, which will be made following the pitch inspection on March 6.
