Australian cricket fans have received a major boost with news that captain Pat Cummins is set to be named in the squad for the second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane.
Injury Comeback on Track
The star fast bowler missed Australia's first Test victory in Perth due to a back stress injury that initially threatened to sideline him for the entire series. However, Cummins has made significant progress in his recovery, bowling in the nets at Perth and following up with another session at Cricket NSW headquarters on Tuesday.
During the Sydney training session, Cummins worked with the pink ball in preparation for the day-night Test starting next Thursday. He was joined by fellow injured paceman Josh Hazlewood, though Hazlewood isn't expected to return from his hamstring injury in time for the Brisbane match.
Selection Decisions Loom
Australia is anticipated to name a 15-player squad with no changes beyond the inclusion of Cummins. Opener Usman Khawaja will be included despite struggling with back spasms during the first Test, though his position in the final XI remains uncertain.
The return of Cummins creates a selection headache, with debutant Brendan Doggett facing the likely omission despite his impressive first Test performance where he took match figures of 5-78 in Australia's eight-wicket victory over England.
Doggett, who made his debut in Perth, remains mentally prepared to play if needed. "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," the 31-year-old said on Thursday.
Coaching Staff Taking Cautious Approach
Australia coach Andrew McDonald indicated the decision on Cummins' availability would likely be made at the last minute. "There's a lot of positives there, but now it's just really building that resilience there, and making sure that we're not putting him in harm's way," McDonald explained.
Doggett confirmed he hasn't received any official word from selectors about his potential omission to accommodate Cummins' return. "There have been no conversations whatsoever," he said, noting that discussions would likely begin when the team arrives in Brisbane on Sunday.
The South Australian quick acknowledged his limited experience with pink-ball cricket but expressed confidence in adapting to Gabba conditions. He reflected on his whirlwind debut week: "It was a pretty hectic week on and off the field for me. Obviously it was nice to get the win and watch Travis Head go to town in that fourth innings."
Selection debates continue around the batting order, particularly whether Travis Head should retain his opening position or if Khawaja deserves another opportunity at his home ground after recovering from back issues. In-form Queensland opener Matt Renshaw also remains in contention for a spot.
