Australia captain praises bowlers and backs his team after 300-wicket milestone
Australia captain Pat Cummins believes the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord’s is a great advertisement for Test cricket, even though the match could finish within three days.
After just two days of play, a staggering 28 wickets have already fallen. But Cummins, who led from the front with a superb 6-28 on Thursday, said the match remains finely balanced and full of excitement.
Speaking to reporters after the second day, Cummins said,
“It’s set up pretty well. The mood in the changing room is positive. That eighth-wicket partnership was really important and a great way to end the day.”
Australia reached stumps on 144 for 8 in their second innings, leading by 218 runs, thanks to a crucial 61-run stand between Alex Carey (43) and Mitchell Starc (16 not out). Cummins’ six-wicket haul also took him to the milestone of 300 Test wickets, becoming only the eighth Australian to achieve the feat.
A close contest despite rapid progress
When asked if the bowlers’ dominance was taking away from the occasion, Cummins disagreed.
“After two days, it’s close to 50-50,” he said. “It’s a good Test match. Some batters have looked comfortable, but others have struggled. Both teams have bowled very well and very disciplined. There haven’t been many loose deliveries.”
He also pointed out that the conditions at Lord’s have made run-scoring difficult.
“The pitch is tricky and runs are hard to come by. But we’ll need to bowl well again tomorrow.”
The 32-year-old has now played 68 Tests and reached the 300-wicket mark at an impressive average of 22.08.
“It’s pretty cool,” said Cummins. “Not many names are on that list. It’s something I’ve always wanted and it shows good durability and longevity.”
South Africa still confident despite deficit
South Africa were bowled out for just 138 in their first innings, giving Australia a 74-run lead. Despite the low total, South African batter David Bedingham, who top-scored with 45, remains confident about his team’s chances.
“It’s a fairly tricky pitch, but the bowling has been high quality. It’s still a great opportunity for us, and we are excited about the chance to win,” he said.
South Africa have not won a major global cricket title in 28 years, and this WTC final represents a rare chance.
“The pitch might slow down more and go a bit straighter in the fourth innings. Hopefully, we can chase down the target,” Bedingham added.
Test cricket still delivers drama
Even though the match may end inside three days, the drama, intensity, and balance have shown why Test cricket remains special. With both sides still in the contest, day three promises to be another thrilling chapter.
As Cummins leads Australia into a crucial day, and South Africa chase history, the WTC final is proving that even low-scoring matches can provide edge-of-the-seat entertainment.