Australia captain Pat Cummins has given his strongest indication yet that he could play in the second Ashes Test in Brisbane after bowling with a pink ball in the nets. The 32-year-old trained at Cricket NSW headquarters in Sydney on Tuesday, using the pink ball that will be used in the day-night match at the Gabba.
Cummins missed the stunning eight-wicket win in the two-day opener at Perth Stadium due to a back injury. However, he impressed during net sessions in Perth, admitting he was further progressed in his rehab than he thought he might be. Australia coach Andrew McDonald said on Monday that people would question why Cummins is not playing after seeing him bowl in Perth.
Fellow pace bowler Josh Hazlewood also bowled in the nets but with a red ball and not at full pace due to a hamstring injury. McDonald expects Hazlewood to play some role in the series, rubbishing speculation he could be done for the entire summer.
Despite Australia's extraordinary win, the XI is far from settled. Usman Khawaja's spot is not guaranteed as he recovers from back spasms. Travis Head made a compelling case to remain as a Test opener with his fourth-innings 123. Unlucky all-rounder Beau Webster could come back in at number six if Khawaja is out, while Josh Inglis is also a contender after scoring a century against the England Lions.
