We hope to take back trophy this time, says Pat Cummins, ahead of Australia-India tests

Pat Cummins exudes quiet confidence as he hopes to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy from India in upcoming Test series.

There is a quiet confidence innate to Pat Cummins. Striding into the press conference hall wearing his worn-out baggy green cap at the Optus Stadium here on Thursday (November 21, 2024), the Australian skipper hoped that his men would wrest back the elusive Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

There were also moments when the brotherhood of fast bowlers was on view as he praised his counterpart, Jasprit Bumrah. Ahead of the first Test against India here on Friday (November 21, 2024), Cummins extensively spoke to the media.

Excerpts from the press conference:

“For about half in the change room, we haven’t won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, so it’s one of the last things to tick off. With every challenge that was thrown at us over the last few years, we have stepped up and done well. We know India is right up there with one of the best teams in the world, so we are excited.”

“Yeah, it is great to see and should happen more. In the New Zealand series last year, it was good with Tim Southee as captain. I don’t think it really changes too much again, but it’s one of those rare things. So, yeah, looking forward to seeing how he (Bumrah) goes about his work out there. As a fan of fast bowling, it’s always good to see.”

“We make plans for a whole squad. India has got a lot of depth. Most of us have played the IPL and seen how newcomers step up straight away. They are missing a couple of guys we are more familiar with, but we know whoever they pick is going to be good enough for Test cricket.”

Cummins, however, had some kind words about young all-rounder Nitish Reddy. The two turned out for IPL franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad for which Cummins was the skipper. “Loved playing alongside Nitish. He is a great young guy starting out in his professional career. I am impressed with how he went about his work. He can swing the ball a little bit,” the Australian captain said.