Australia’s cricket captain, Pat Cummins, is preparing for the upcoming five-test series against India by leaning more on his all-rounders, Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh.
The series starts on November 22 in Perth and includes matches in Adelaide, Brisbane, and Melbourne, before wrapping up in Sydney on January 3. Australia is determined to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
With five tests packed into just over six weeks, both teams will face significant challenges. Cummins believes Green and Marsh will be key players with the ball. “The last few summers have had quick, light test matches,” Cummins shared during a Monday press conference in Sydney. “This summer might be different. We’ll need to rely on Cam Green and Mitch Marsh more.”
Green, who began his career in Sheffield Shield cricket as a bowler, hasn’t bowled much in test matches. However, Cummins sees potential. “Cam Green started as a bowler but hasn’t had to bowl a lot in tests,” he said. “Nathan Lyon often bowls many overs, so having an all-rounder isn’t always needed. But having a fifth bowling option is a big advantage.”
To ensure he’s at his best, Cummins will take a break from the white-ball tour of England and Scotland in September. Cricket Australia has granted him a two-month break before the November one-day series against Pakistan. During this time, he’ll focus on gym work and rest.
At 31, Cummins is aware of the importance of managing his workload. “I’m trying to refill the tank after two years of non-stop bowling,” he explained. “I hope to be in great shape for the first test.”
As Australia gears up for this crucial series, the roles of Green and Marsh will be closely watched. Their performance could be the key to Australia’s success against a formidable Indian side.
