Cummins eyes on achieving an elusive milestone in test series against India
Australia’s cricket captain, Pat Cummins, is focused on achieving an elusive milestone by winning a test series against India over the coming two months. Although Cummins has celebrated various triumphs, including numerous World Cup victories and Ashes series wins, he and many teammates have faced disappointment in their last four test series against India, both at home and away. Ahead of the opening test at Perth Stadium, Cummins remarked that for many in the changing room, winning the Border-Gavaskar trophy remains a significant unfulfilled aspiration.
Cummins mentioned that overcoming various challenges over the recent years has been an achievement for the team, and securing a series win against India would further solidify their legacy, transitioning from a multi-season success to a more generational one. “We’re all excited to have India right out there…one of the best teams in the world,” he said, conveying the anticipation surrounding the series.
This five-test series will showcase a different Indian side compared to the last tour in 2020-21 when a depleted squad clinched a remarkable 2-1 victory over Tim Paine’s Australians. Indian pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah will captain the team in Perth, as regular captain Rohit Sharma is on paternity leave. The squad features some new faces, including left-handed batsman Devdutt Padikkal, who may make his second test appearance due to Shubman Gill’s thumb injury.
Cummins emphasized that Australia prepared comprehensively for the Indian squad and that they are not underestimating the newcomers. Most of the Australian players have experience in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where emerging talents frequently impress in international formats. While India is missing some familiar faces, Cummins affirmed that anyone selected by the Indian team is clearly deemed capable of performing at the test level.
Australia is also undergoing changes, particularly at the top of the batting order, as David Warner will not be opening the innings. Cummins acknowledged Warner’s retirement has created a challenge, stating it is difficult to replace his impact in many aspects. The captain expressed optimism that Nathan McSweeney, who is uncapped at the Test level, and seasoned player Usman Khawaja, former teammates from Queensland, could form a strong opening partnership.
“The most important thing for someone like Nathan who’s coming in is just to play his own game,” Cummins advised when discussing McSweeney’s role in the team. This encouragement reflects a supportive environment aimed at integrating new players while fostering confidence.
As the rivalry between Australia and India resumes on the test stage, both teams will aim to make their mark in this highly anticipated series, with Cummins leading a determined Australian squad seeking to break its losing streak against one of cricket’s strongest sides.