Is it extraordinary to achieve over 300 Test wickets despite a 5.5-year absence?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a thrilling World Test Championship final, Matthew Hayden commends Pat Cummins for his remarkable achievement of over 300 Test wickets despite a five-and-a-half-year gap from the format. Discover the insights from Hayden on both players and the captivating contest unfolding at Lord's.
Key Takeaways
- Pat Cummins achieved over 300 Test wickets despite a lengthy absence.
- His performance included a remarkable 6-28 against South Africa.
- The Australian pace attack is considered among the best in history.
- Batters are experiencing challenges in adapting to Test match conditions.
- Understanding the nuances of Test cricket is crucial for modern players.
London, June 13 (NationPress) Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden praised Pat Cummins for his crucial contribution in limiting South Africa during the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord's. Hayden noted that the Aussie captain consistently excels and commended the right-arm fast bowler for achieving over 300 Test wickets despite a hiatus of more than five years from the format after his debut.
Cummins celebrated his 14th five-wicket haul by delivering a remarkable performance of 6-28, helping to dismiss South Africa for just 138 runs in 57.1 overs on the second day at the historic Lord's Cricket Ground on Thursday. He has now become only the eighth Australian bowler to surpass the 300 Test wickets milestone.
Since his Test debut in Johannesburg against South Africa in 2011, where he claimed seven wickets, including six in the second innings, earning the Player of the Match accolade, he faced a lengthy absence from Test cricket lasting five years and four months due to injury challenges.
"Cummins does everything right - he challenges the off stump, utilizes the slope, and targets the top of the stumps, compelling batters to play continuously. Achieving over 300 Test wickets despite a five-and-a-half-year absence due to injury is truly extraordinary," Hayden commented on Jio Hotstar.
Alongside Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood also made significant contributions, bowling South Africa out for just 138. Australia advanced after a slow start in their second innings, ending Day 2 at 144/8, holding a 218-run lead.
"The trio of Hazlewood, Cummins, and Starc might be the best pace attack Australia has ever seen—even surpassing McGrath, Gillespie, and Lee—due to their extensive collaboration and varied combinations. Add Nathan Lyon to the mix, and it becomes an 'awesome foursome.' Australia performed well to forge ahead despite mounting pressure. South Africa fought valiantly, making this an engaging contest. Day 3 promises even more excitement," Hayden added.
Hayden shared his insights on the overall batting display from both sides, stating, "Analyzing Day 2's performance, an equal number of wickets fell over the two days. Batters appear somewhat rusty in their Test match batting. The lateral movement has complicated footwork, resulting in getting struck on the pads and edging deliveries. The bowlers have dominated this match, and no century partnerships have been formed, which could significantly impact the fourth innings."
"Even if Australia secures a lead of 250, South Africa will require a 100-run stand and an additional 50-run partnership to remain competitive. Ironically, more wickets have fallen with the sun shining than under overcast conditions. This suggests an issue with batting form rather than exceptional bowling skills."
Commenting on how batters can improve moving forward, Hayden noted, "Test match cricket requires an adjustment to not scoring quickly—contrary to what shorter formats encourage. T20 batting promotes moving away from the ball to generate space and power, but in Tests, that turns into a vulnerability. Dismissals like those of Labuschagne, Green, and Webster resulted from not positioning close to the ball. We were taught to 'smell the leather'—to let the ball come under our eyes. In Test cricket, that necessitates moving towards the ball, not away from it. Currently, there are evident technical flaws as these players readjust to the longer format.
Point of View
Our perspective remains aligned with the values of integrity and impartiality. The achievements of players like Pat Cummins, especially amid adversity, highlight the resilience and skill inherent in the sport. The ongoing contest between Australia and South Africa showcases the competitive spirit of cricket at its finest. We strive to provide balanced coverage that honors both teams' efforts.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long was Pat Cummins absent from Test cricket?
Pat Cummins was absent from Test cricket for over five years due to injuries.
What milestone did Cummins achieve during the WTC final?
During the WTC final, Pat Cummins achieved over 300 Test wickets, becoming the eighth Australian bowler to do so.
What was the bowling performance of Cummins in the match?
Cummins delivered a stunning performance with figures of 6-28, helping to bowl out South Africa for 138 runs.
Who else contributed significantly to the bowling attack?
Alongside Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood also played crucial roles in the bowling attack.
What does Hayden suggest about the batting performances?
Hayden noted that batters appeared rusty and emphasized the need for better footwork and approach in Test match batting.
