In yet another blow to Australia, captain Pat Cummins has reportedly been ruled out of the third Test at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, which begins on March 1. The sprinter will stay at his home in Sydney for personal reasons.
For the uninitiated, Cummins returned home due to a serious family health problem following Australia’s six-wicket defeat in the second Test in Delhi.
Speaking to cricket.com.au, Cummins said:
“I have decided not to return to India at this time. I feel like I’m better off being here with my family. I appreciate the overwhelming support I have received from Cricket Australia and my teammates. Thanks for your understanding.”
The visitors are currently 2-0 down in the four Test series, which includes their first Test defeat by an innings and 132 runs.
Vice-captain Steve Smith will lead the team in the absence of regular captain Cummins in Indore. After spending four days in Dubai with his wife, Dani Willis, he has rejoined the squad.
The right-hander has coached Australia twice since being appointed as a substitute. He led the Australians through the second test during the 2021-22 Ashes and the day/night test against the West Indies last year. Australia won both games against England and WI by 275 runs and 419 runs respectively.
Australia have already lost the services of the injured David Warner (left elbow hairline fracture). Meanwhile, Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the entire Test series due to an Achilles tendon ailment.
The Aussies also launched the all-rounder Ashton Agar to take part in the Sheffield Shield and March Cup after missing the last two tests.
Meanwhile, the versatile Cameron Green and Mitchell Starc are recovering from finger injuries after missing the first two tests. The duo is online to play the next Trial.
Updated Australia squad following absence of Pat Cummins
Australian squad for the third test: Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Matt Kuhnemann .