Pat Cummins Shines as Australia Leads in World Test Championship Final
Day 2 Highlights of the World Test Championship Final
On June 13, after the conclusion of Day 2 in the World Test Championship Final at Lord's, Australian captain Pat Cummins expressed confidence in the pitch's ability to assist bowlers. Both teams showcased disciplined bowling, with South Africa's fast bowlers proving particularly challenging.
Australia concluded Day 2 with a score of 144/8, extending their lead to 218 runs against South Africa at the historic Home of Cricket in London.
Cummins noted, "The wicket is still offering some assistance. It seems that just when it appears to be settling, one delivery can change everything. Both teams have bowled exceptionally well, maintaining a tight line and length, which has made it difficult for the batsmen. South Africa's fast bowlers were particularly effective today, and the pitch has enough in it to keep things interesting."
Initially targeting a score above 200, Cummins expressed satisfaction with their current total and hopes to add more runs to enhance their bowling options for Day 3.
"I aimed for over 200 runs when I stepped out, so reaching that is great. However, we want to maximize our score. If we can add another 20 or 30 runs in the morning, that would be beneficial, providing us with more options for bowling," he stated.
Cummins made headlines with an impressive bowling performance, taking 6 wickets for just 28 runs against South Africa in the WTC final.
This achievement places Cummins as the eighth-highest wicket-taker for Australia in Test cricket, reaching the milestone of 300 wickets in only 68 matches, which includes his 14th five-wicket haul.
"It's an incredible feeling to be part of such an exclusive group. For a fast bowler, reaching 300 wickets signifies durability and resilience, and I take pride in joining this elite list," he remarked.
With this five-wicket haul, Cummins also surpassed a 33-year-old record previously held by England's Bob Willis, who had the best bowling figures by a captain at Lord's with 6/101 against India in 1992. Cummins now holds the record with his remarkable 6/28, setting a new standard at this iconic venue.