New Delhi, August 24: Australia’s captain Pat Cummins plans to utilize the One Day Internationals (ODIs) against South Africa at the end of September as preparation for the upcoming Test series. He expects to be joined by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for these matches.
Since the ODI World Cup final in 2023, Cummins has played only two matches in this format. During this time, the leadership in ODIs has been taken over by Steve Smith, Mitchell Marsh, and Josh Inglis. Before heading to South Africa, Australia will play a three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe on September 15, 18, and 20. However, Cummins hinted that he might miss the Zimbabwe tour.
He stated, “I believe I will at least be part of some matches. I’m not sure if I should say this, but I think the focus is on the Test series. That’s why most of the white-ball series will be played with an eye on red-ball cricket. I think we all might get a week off from bowling, but you’ll still do your gym sessions, and then we’ll start preparing for that series. If I don’t play against Zimbabwe, I might have an extra week here.”
In a discussion with Fox Cricket, Starc and Hazlewood indicated they might also play a role in the ODIs before the Test series against South Africa. Cummins emphasized that his primary focus is on Test cricket, although the ODI World Cup in 2027 is part of his plans. Most of the matches for the 2027 World Cup will be held in South Africa, with some games taking place in Zimbabwe and Namibia. Australia is set to play a total of 21 Test matches over the next 12 months.
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