Australian Test captain Pat Cummins has significantly increased his bowling intensity during New South Wales training, putting him firmly on track for a return in the second Ashes Test.
Road to Recovery
The star fast bowler, who has been ruled out of the highly anticipated series opener in Perth starting November 21, appears increasingly likely to feature in the day-night contest at the Gabba. Cummins delivered an encouraging performance at the SCG on Saturday, bowling at full pace in the nets as NSW prepares to host Victoria in the Sheffield Shield beginning Monday.
The 32-year-old recently acknowledged that playing unchanged from the second Test through the remainder of the series would be unlikely as he recovers from stress in his back. However, his potential return at any stage during the Ashes represents a significant concern for England, who believe they've gained an advantage over Scott Boland following his two underwhelming Tests during the 2023 Ashes.
Australia's Bowling Attack Takes Shape
Australia will enter the first Test with a pace attack consisting of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland, with all three scheduled to play in the Sheffield Shield before heading to Perth.
When Australia unveiled their squad this week, English media predictably labeled the group "Dad's Army" given that Cameron Green stands as the only player among the 15 aged under 30. However, Hazlewood firmly believes Australia's extensive experience represents a strength rather than a weakness.
"We bounce off each other out there and know each other's game so well and help each other out there," Hazlewood told reporters in Sydney on Saturday. "There'll come a time no doubt when the team is too old, but I don't think it's yet."
Hazlewood's Milestone Approach
The reliable quick approaches the Ashes series just five wickets shy of a significant personal milestone, sitting on 295 Test wickets. When he inevitably reaches the 300-wicket mark, Hazlewood will join his long-serving teammates Starc, Cummins and Nathan Lyon in the exclusive club.
Despite the approaching achievement, the consistently accurate bowler insists he hasn't been giving it much thought. "I feel in the best shape I've been in a long time," Hazlewood declared. "Over the last four or five years, I've had a lot of confidence. My numbers suggest that. Just staying on the park, probably since the COVID pandemic, has been hard."
His form throughout 2023 has been outstanding when available, taking 16 wickets from his four Tests this year while also dominating in white-ball cricket.
