As the highly anticipated ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final approaches, Australia prepares to face off against India at the historic Oval in London from June 7 to 11. In a recent statement, Australian captain Pat Cummins discussed the pitch conditions, emphasizing its potential to provide assistance to the bowlers with ample bounce.
Australia has demonstrated dominance in Test cricket over the past two years, securing the top spot in the points table during the 2021-2023 WTC cycle. With a remarkable record of 11 victories in 19 matches, the team suffered only three losses while drawing five games.
Looking ahead to the WTC final against India, Pat Cummins exudes confidence in the bowling arsenal at his disposal, believing that Australia possesses enough options to capitalize on the conditions and secure India’s 20 wickets in this crucial encounter.
“It’s important to choose the right moments to push for wickets. We need to take 20 wickets, and it’s not necessary to exhaust all resources in the first innings. We have a plethora of bowlers who can be utilized at different stages,” Cummins expressed.
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The Australian lineup is likely to feature Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Scott Boland as the primary pacers, with Cameron Green assuming the role of the fourth seamer. Unfortunately, Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the match due to incomplete recovery from injury.
Addressing Australia’s previous record at the Oval, Cummins dismisses concerns about the team’s low win percentage, focusing instead on their upcoming performance.
“Our playing group has not participated in many of those 50 Tests at the venue. Most of us have experienced Ashes games, where some players have excelled in batting, while our bowlers have showcased their pace and ability to generate bounce. We are optimistic about the conditions,” Cummins added.
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Over the past 50 years, Australia has managed only two Test victories at the Oval, resulting in a win percentage of 14% at the South London venue. Nevertheless, Cummins remains undeterred, highlighting the team’s resilience and determination.
The 30-year-old captain acknowledges the challenges posed by the Indian team, particularly their recent success during back-to-back series in Australia. Despite Australia’s formidable home record, Cummins acknowledges that they were troubled by Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane’s side. However, he believes that the current Australian squad has hit their stride, with players at the peak of their careers and veterans contributing their expertise.
As the WTC final looms on the horizon, Pat Cummins exudes confidence in Australia’s bowling depth and their ability to seize crucial moments to secure victory. The team’s focus remains resolute, aiming to overcome past challenges and deliver a memorable performance in pursuit of the prestigious Test Championship title.