Last Updated on 37 seconds ago by Charbel Coorey
Pat Cummins could play just his third ODI since the 2023 World Cup Final when Australia take on South Africa in Potchefstroom on Wednesday.
The captain has been rested for the opening two matches of the South Africa series despite not taking part in the Zimbabwe tour earlier this month. Cummins admitted that the upcoming Test series is the priority as he continues to build his loads following a lumbar stress injury suffered last year.
“I’m not sure I should say this, but I think the focus is on the Test series. So a lot of the white-ball [series], and how we play that, would be with an eye on the red ball. So I’d imagine it’d be one, two, and probably a maximum of three games out of those six [against Zimbabwe and South Africa],” Cummins said in August.
Pat Cummins to play 3rd ODI against South Africa? Captain could return for final match
The series is gone for Australia following disappointing defeats in Durban and Johannesburg. To make matters worse, the visitors have injury concerns on the pace-bowling front; most notably Nathan Ellis, who only managed four overs in the second ODI due to a side strain. Billy Stanlake suffered the same injury in Zimbabwe.
Among those fit, Josh Hazlewood has played both ODIs in South Africa in addition to the one in Zimbabwe. Hence, it will be a surprise if he lines up in the final ODI given the focus on rotation and player management. This leaves Mitchell Starc, Xavier Bartlett and Cummins as the specialist pace bowlers available for Wednesday’s encounter.
The third ODI is also Australia’s final match before the Test series. Getting overs in Cummins’ legs is another factor the selectors may consider.
Elsewhere, Australia may wish to give Oliver Peake an opportunity. The 20-year-old is yet to play in this series after showing promising signs in Zimbabwe. Jack Edwards or Cameron Green are likeliest to make way if Australia decide to play Peake.
Australia possible 11 for 3rd ODI against South Africa in Potchefstroom: 1. Mitch Marsh, 2. Travis Head, 3. Cooper Connolly, 4. Alex Carey (wk), 5. Matt Renshaw, 6. Cameron Green, 7. Jack Edwards, 8. Xavier Bartlett, 9. Pat Cummins, 10. Mitchell Starc, 11. Adam Zampa
