Pat Cummins Vows Short-Ball Attack Against India in Brisbane Test
Australian skipper Pat Cummins has hinted at a plan. He will unleash a barrage of short-pitched deliveries to trouble Indian batters in the third Test at Brisbane, starting Saturday. After the bouncer tactic proved successful in the second Test at Adelaide, Cummins confirmed that it remains a key weapon in Australia’s bowling arsenal for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
“Yeah, potentially. It worked out in the Adelaide Test. It’s always in the back of your mind as a bit of a plan B,” Cummins told the media in his pre-match press meet.
The Pink Ball Test at Adelaide saw Cummins and the Aussie pacers dominate India with bouncers. They used them in both innings. The strategy was key in Australia’s 10-wicket win. It leveled the series at 1-1.
“If it’s something really uncomfortable, you’re likely to take a look at it and come to a plan A. It worked in Adelaide, so I’m sure we’ll give it a shot at some point (in the third Test),” he added.
Australian Batters Prepare for Jasprit Bumrah Challenge
Cummins also praised the Aussie batsmen for adapting to the challenge of facing Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah. He was key to India’s success in the first Test at Perth.
“Yeah, that’s right. The professional players that we are, obviously, we’ll be ready for it. The guys always relish who they come up against, whatever the conditions are,” he said.
He noted Steve Smith’s eagerness to face tough batting conditions. He referenced Smith’s comfort with spinning wickets during tours of India.
“Look, going to India and seeing a spinning wicket…for someone like Smithy (Steve Smith), he loves that challenge where it is really difficult to bat on. Those conversations, they’re always up for it and exciting for the next round,” he noted.
Steve Smith’s Form ‘Just Around the Corner’
Steve Smith, one of Australia’s premier batters, has yet to make a significant impact in the series. However, Cummins expressed confidence that Smith’s return to form is imminent.
“He’s looking fantastic in the nets. Just looking really sharp, looking like he’s got plenty of time, doing all the right things like he always does.
“So, I am sure he’ll get scores, just around the corner. Obviously, a big leader around the group, and he’s been awesome. So, really hoping he gets a good result,” he said.
Batting Strategies Differ by Player at the Gabba
Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh suggested an aggressive batting style to counter India’s bowlers. But, Cummins said strategies would depend on the players and the changing conditions at the Gabba.
“Trav (Travis Head) and Mitch are natural shot-makers and it’s the way they go about it. For a few of the other guys, they perhaps see it a little bit differently,” he explained.
He also noted how conditions at the Gabba can evolve during the Test. “Particularly here at the Gabba, it can change from day one to day two and three. So everyone’s got their own method. I think the most important thing is you play to your strengths. Trav did that last week,” he said.
Pat Cummins on Leadership Pressure and Criticism
As the Australian team captain, Pat Cummins feels the pressure. But, he has learned to manage it.
“I think there’s always pressure when you’re playing Test cricket. When you’re captain, a lot of that falls on you probably more than a lot of the other players. It’s nothing new.
Reflecting on criticism following Australia’s 295-run defeat in the first Test at Perth, Cummins said, “Of course, you just want to go out there and do well. In terms of criticism, I think at Perth, we didn’t play our best. I didn’t have the greatest game,” he said recalling the 295-run drubbing in the opening game.
He added, “In some ways, any criticism, a lot of criticism is valid. Some of it isn’t. You know it’s not valid so you can dismiss some of it,” he said.
Bouncer Barrage at the Gabba?
With the series tied 1-1, the third Test at the Gabba is crucial for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Pat Cummins has made it clear. The short-ball strategy is still in play. It could once again trouble India’s batters.
It is unclear if Australia’s pacers can replicate their Adelaide dominance. But, one thing is certain: Cummins and his team are ready for a fierce battle in Brisbane.
