Australia have received a timely lift ahead of the second Ashes Test, with captain Pat Cummins declaring he has “half a chance” of being fit to return in Brisbane.
The fast bowler missed the opening match in Perth due to a back injury, but now believes he could recover in time for the day-night encounter at the Gabba starting on December 4.
His absence did little to slow Australia in the series opener, as Steve Smith stepped in as stand-in captain and Scott Boland replaced him in the bowling attack.
The hosts crushed England by eight wickets inside two days, a result that prompted renewed scrutiny of the tourists’ fragile batting.
Boland seized the moment with figures of 4-33 in the second innings, contributing to speculation - mostly tongue-in-cheek - about whether Cummins might struggle to reclaim his spot once fit.
During a commentary stint for Fox Sports, Cummins provided a positive update on his recovery, revealing that he has significantly increased his workload after being sidelined since July.
“It’s feeling good,” he said of his back.
Pat Cummins is optimistic he'll be able to play in the second Ashes Test between England and Australia
| PA“I had a couple of good sessions in Perth this week, so having a big day where I’d bowl around 10 overs then a couple of quieter days and then going again.”
He added that the injury is “on track and pulling up pretty well,” before suggesting his availability for Brisbane remains a realistic possibility.
“[I’m] half a chance for the next game,” he said.
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Five things to know about the Ashes | PA“I’ll have a couple more bowls and then there could be about two weeks before the next one the way this one is going.
“I’m pretty hopeful and it’s probably better than it was a few weeks ago.”
Australia are unlikely to face a genuine selection dilemma if their captain is declared fit.
Smith was emphatic when asked whether the team would recall Cummins even if he was not at full capacity.
“I hope so,” Smith said. “He’s obviously an absolute weapon. Our skipper and arguably the best bowler in the world so of course you want him back.”
Travis Head hit 123 as Australia powered their way to victory over England | GETTYThe 36-year-old also praised the collective effort that propelled Australia to a 1-0 lead but made clear that Cummins’ return would only strengthen their position as the series moves east.
“I’m proud of the boys for this week’s effort - it was an amazing game and great to be 1-0 up in the Ashes,” he said.
With the home side in commanding form, Cummins’ potential comeback adds another layer of pressure on England, whose batting collapse in Perth has left them scrambling to prove they can withstand Australia’s formidable bowling attack.
If Cummins completes his recovery in time, the challenge facing the tourists at the Gabba could be even more severe.