Fri Oct 25 00:16:55 UTC 2024: – **Pat Cummins’ Return**: Test captain Pat Cummins is set to play for New South Wales (NSW) in a one-day game against Victoria, marking his first match since July’s Major League T20 in the USA.
– **Bowling Attack**: Cummins will join fellow Test quick Josh Hazlewood in Australia’s bowling lineup for an ODI series against Pakistan, aimed at preparing for an upcoming five-Test series against India.
– **Other Players**: Glenn Maxwell and Matt Short, also part of the ODI squad, will represent Victoria after being rested from the recent Sheffield Shield match against NSW. Steve Smith, who struggled in his recent matches with low scores, will bat for NSW to regain form.
– **Notable Absences**: Mitchell Starc will miss the match despite a strong return to first-class cricket, along with Adam Zampa, Sean Abbott, and Nathan Lyon. Tanveer Sangha and Chris Green will handle spin duties for NSW, led by Moises Henriques in the absence of new captain Jack Edwards (hamstring strain).
– **Preparation Strategy**: Cummins’ lengthy break from international play is part of a pre-planned strategy to ensure he is fit and ready for a demanding season, allowing for recovery and better performance longevity.
– **Future Matches**: Cummins is anticipated to participate in all five Tests against India and subsequent matches against Sri Lanka in February.

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