Cummins Lauds Australia's Dominant Start to World Test Championship Campaign

Cummins Hails Australia's Successful Start to New WTC Campaign

Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, has voiced his satisfaction with his team's impressive commencement to the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Australia, a consistent contender in the WTC Finals, having reached the ultimate clash in the past two editions, have initiated their campaign on a high note. They secured victories in their first two Tests of this cycle, triumphing over the West Indies in Grenada and clinching the series.

Cummins celebrates the series win in Grenada © AFP

"Winning away from home isn't easy, so I'm really pleased with how we responded after Lord's (WTC Final)," Cummins commented following the Grenada Test. "It's been a productive couple of weeks. With the pink ball Test coming up next week, it's great to have already secured the series. Those matches always present unique challenges. It's a dream start really, two wins from two, setting us up well in the cycle. We played some excellent cricket."

Cummins also lauded the contributions of the team's seasoned players, specifically acknowledging Steve Smith's crucial half-century. Smith's innings proved vital in the second innings when the team was struggling at 28/3, holding a slender lead of just 61 runs. "Experience plays a significant role. Someone like Steve Smith coming back brings immense value," Cummins emphasized. "Even if he hadn't played in Grenada, he's experienced numerous wickets where you need to adapt your scoring approach. It might not always be about powerful drives down the ground; sometimes you have to grind your way to a 50. That ability comes with experience."

He further added, "With experience, you've encountered similar challenges before, allowing you to maintain composure and navigate through the problem. As a captain, it simplifies my role, knowing that I have a team of established players."

Addressing the performance of young opener Sam Konstas, who has faced difficulties in making a significant impact, scoring only 33 runs in four innings, Cummins expressed his support. "Every innings can feel like the most important thing in the world," he said of Konstas. "But statistically, even the best batters in the world don't perform up to their average three out of four times. Failure is more common than success."

Cummins concluded, "As long as you're learning quickly, moving well, and giving yourself the best opportunity, continue to build on that and evaluate yourself after a series, not just innings by innings."

Meanwhile, West Indies' former captain Kraigg Brathwaite is also under scrutiny following a string of low scores. West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has indicated that Brathwaite's future in the team is under consideration. Sammy also acknowledged the need for improved pitches in the Caribbean to foster the development of better Test batters.