Cummins Defends Australia’s Batters Amid Top-Order Struggles in India Series
Australia captain Pat Cummins has come to the defense of his top-order batsmen following another underwhelming performance in the drawn third Test against India at the Gabba. The Australian lineup struggled in their second innings on Wednesday, collapsing to 33 for five before eventually declaring at 79 for eight.
The new opening pair of Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney has failed to deliver a partnership exceeding 21 runs throughout the series. Meanwhile, number three Marnus Labuschagne, despite his reputation as a dependable run-scorer, is averaging a disappointing 16.40 from five innings, with his lone half-century coming in the second Test in Adelaide.
Cummins addressed the concerns after the match, explaining that Wednesday’s collapse was partially a result of the team chasing quick runs to create a slim chance for victory.
“We are not beholden to stats,” Cummins told reporters. “We know there are certain roles and easier times to bat and harder times to bat, just like bowlers. You are looking at the best seven batters as a unit to play the best you can.”
Call for Change Amid Rising Talent
The top-order’s struggles have intensified scrutiny, especially as 19-year-old Sam Konstas continues to shine. Konstas recently made headlines with a century against an Indian selection in a tour match in Canberra and became the youngest player to score a half-century in the Big Bash League, smashing 56 off 27 balls on debut for the Sydney Thunder.
Many pundits are urging selectors to include Konstas in the Test squad for the remaining matches, arguing that his form and maturity warrant an opportunity. Currently, McSweeney, who has been converted to an opener for this series despite predominantly batting at number three, has faced criticism for his limited contributions.
Cummins, however, defended McSweeney’s approach, citing his willingness to prioritize the team over personal statistics.
“I have been impressed with the way he has gone about it,” Cummins said of McSweeney, who scored just four and nine in his two innings at the Gabba. “Today, for someone starting out his career, he was selfless to go out and try and play his shots rather than preserve his wicket. He probably hasn’t got the runs he would have liked, but he has played important knocks that set up a win in Adelaide and a good result here.”
Decisive Tests Ahead
With the series tied at 1-1, the focus shifts to the fourth Test in Melbourne, starting December 26, followed by the final match in Sydney. While Cummins refrained from commenting on potential squad changes, the selectors face a critical decision on whether to stick with McSweeney or bring in Konstas to rejuvenate the struggling top order.
Australia’s batting unit will need to step up as they aim to clinch the series and build momentum heading into 2024.
