Australia captain Pat Cummins has stated that the 2018-19 Test series loss to India was more painful compared to the 2020-21 defeat. In the 2018-19 series, India, led by Virat Kohli, defeated Australia 2-1, with significant contributions from Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara. Cummins explained that during that series, Australia was completely outplayed.
Speaking on The Grade Cricketer podcast, Cummins said, “I actually thought the series before (2018-19) was worse because we got completely beaten whereas that series (in 2020-21) was quite (keenly) fought.”
During the 2020-21 series, a depleted Indian team again achieved a 2-1 victory, marking their first Test match win at Gabba in 32 years.Cummins acknowledged India’s strong performance, stating, “I thought they (India) played like fantastically well to win at the Gabba.”
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Former player David Warner has voiced his willingness to come out of retirement to assist the team. In response, Cummins humorously addressed Warner, saying, “Dave we are very interested, we’re taking it very seriously and we’ll be in touch, mate just watch that phone,” before adding, “Uh, we love Davey (Warner) but he’s retired, sorry.”
Cummins, who will lead Australia in a five-match Test series against India starting November 22 in Perth, expressed his preference for green pitches to challenge the visiting team. However, he noted that he has no control over pitch preparation.
“I wish if I had it my way I would be looking like those bushes behind you. Unfortunately, I don’t have any sway (on the preparation of wickets), so we’ll wait and see,” added Cummins.