Ashes: Pat Cummins expected to play at Gabba, batting order still in spotlight | Cricket News
Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins is expected to be named in the squad for the second Ashes Test at the Gabba on December 4, following Australia’s victory in Perth, according to The West Australian. The confirmation comes despite earlier uncertainty about his participation due to a previous back injury.The squad announcement, scheduled for Friday, is not expected to include any additional players, leaving questions about the team’s top-order batting lineup following Usman Khawaja‘s back issues and Travis Head’s successful century in the first Test’s fourth innings.
Cummins, who had raised concerns about missing the entire series due to a bone stress flare-up in his back discovered in September, has shown positive progress. He has successfully completed full-intensity bowling sessions in Perth before and during the first Ashes Test.Brendan Dodgett expressed uncertainty about Cummins’ participation on Thursday, while indicating his own readiness to step in if needed.“Pat is looking pretty good in the nets now so we will see where that lands. I am going to control what I can control, keep ticking the legs over and keep bowling and trying to improve in every session and game. If I get called on in that second Test I feel like I am ready to go again,” Doggett said.Regarding discussions about the second Test lineup, Doggett provided further insight.“We are soaking in the win and letting everyone get back to their families. We arrive in Brisbane on Sunday, so I assume conversations will start there about what the line-up looks like for the second Test,” he added.The team’s final composition remains under consideration, with decisions pending about both the bowling attack and top-order batting positions. The situation continues to develop as the team prepares for their arrival in Brisbane on Sunday.
