Pat Cummins eyes Sheffield Shield return to prepare for Test series against India

Australian captain, Pat Cummins, is gearing up for the upcoming Test series against India. The fast bowler has decided to sit out of the team’s white-ball tour of Scotland and England, opting instead to participate in the Sheffield Shield to fine-tune his skills. His preparation strategy is aimed at ensuring he is in top form when Australia faces Rohit Sharma’s side.

During his break from the white-ball format, Cummins will focus on strength and conditioning to be fully ready for the home summer. This Test series against India, which begins in November, will be followed by a two-match series against Sri Lanka.

Australia’s performance in these seven Tests will be crucial in determining their chances of reaching the final of the ICC World Test Championship. Currently, Australia trails India in the points table.

Cummins discussed his plans for the Sheffield Shield in a conversation with coach Andrew McDonald. He mentioned that he prefers to enter the series slightly fresher, with some match practice under his belt. 

"Ronnie [coach Andrew McDonald] called me the other day and said we need to talk about this. I prefer to go a little bit fresher but play some cricket going in. So I'd say it's either two or three ODIs, plus a Shield [game] or maybe just some Shield, maybe some NSW one-day stuff. I imagine kind of late October/early November will be when I start playing building up for the Tests," Cummins said.

This will mark Cummins’ first appearance in the Sheffield Shield since February 2021, where he last represented New South Wales. He has played only nine games in the tournament over his career.

The Australian team is also set to face Pakistan in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This series will provide additional opportunities for Cummins to build momentum.