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Cummins bullish about Aust Test future

3 minute read

Pat Cummins feels Australia are well set for the next few years after blooding new players and their outstanding success in the first three Ashes Tests.

PAT CUMMINS of Australia prepares to bowl during the First Test Match of the 2017/18 Ashes Series at The Gabba in Brisbane, Australia
PAT CUMMINS of Australia prepares to bowl during the First Test Match of the 2017/18 Ashes Series at The Gabba in Brisbane, Australia Picture: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

Test captain Pat Cummins feels Australia are poised for success in the next few years with a squad of high-class players, but wants to make winning overseas a priority.

Heading into the fourth Test against England at the SCG on Wednesday, Australia have retained the Ashes after winning all three matches.

Paceman Cummins is delighted at the way the team has developed and added depth.

Fast bowlers Scott Boland and Michael Neser each performed well after winning their first caps while wicketkeeper Alex Carey also looked comfortable after making his debut in the first Test.

Paceman Jhye Richardson grabbed a five-wicket haul in his comeback Test and batsman Travis Head starred before contracting COVID.

"The opportunity to debut three guys and have a few guys like Trav Head, who has stepped up midway through their career, it just really feels like we've set up for the next few years," Cummins said at the SCG on Tuesday.

"I think the most immediate challenges are going to Pakistan, playing overseas, winning in the sub-continent.

"It seems like the best Aussie teams in the past it's non-negotiable you've got to win at home every summer, but I feel like we've got a real squad of high-class players that can step in at any time."

Legspinner Mitchell Swepson was overlooked for a Test debut at the SCG, but Cummins suggested the Queenslander will get his chance overseas next year.

"I think you need to have the conditions to suit," Cummins said. "I don't think anywhere in Australia that I've played on in the last few years has probably dictated two spinners.

"I would love to have that option, he (Swepson) is a classy spinner, we're itching to get him in the side one day.

"We think he will debut at some stage. Probably most likely (with) the amount of sub-continent tours we've got coming up, that's going to be his opportunity."

Cummins has relished having another pace bowling option in allrounder Cameron Green, who has taken seven wickets at an average of just 11.

"I probably didn't fully appreciate just how good he was as well not bowling the 30 overs in a game, the 40 overs you might from a frontline quick," said Cummins.

"I just love that he's stayed patient even in the short bursts he's had. He's had a huge impact on the game.

"I feel really lucky to be able to call on him. He's a genuine fifth-bowling option, he's not a last resort, he's there to take wickets."

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