One of the players to keep an eye on during the match is Australian captain Pat Cummins, who is regarded as one of the best fast bowlers in the world.
In the team, he has performed admirably against the Proteas squad. Let’s compare his test results to SA.
Pat Cummins: A Relentless Force Against South Africa
When it comes to facing South Africa in Test cricket, Pat Cummins has built a fearsome reputation. As per ESPNcricinfo, the Australian pace spearhead has taken 41 wickets in just eight Tests against the Proteas at a stunning average of 19.31. These numbers not only reflect his dominance but also highlight his consistency and match-winning ability.
Cummins boasts the second-best average among bowlers with 40-plus Test wickets against South Africa since 2000, narrowly behind India’s Ravindra Jadeja, who averages 19.09. Cummins’ tally includes three five-wicket hauls, with 6/79 being his best figures in an innings.
Cummins vs. Markram: The Battle Within the Battle
South African opener Aiden Markram might average 60 against Australia overall, but when it comes to facing Cummins, the story changes dramatically. Cummins has dismissed Markram four times in six innings, keeping him to an average of just 22.50 in their face-offs.
In addition to Markram, Cummins has also dismissed Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verreynne once each in the Test arena. His precision and ability to exploit weaknesses in top-order batters make him a major threat for any opposition.
In the most recent bilateral Test series between Australia and South Africa (2022-23), Cummins scalped 12 wickets at an exceptional average of 16.92, further asserting his dominance over the Proteas.
Dominance in the World Test Championship
In the World Test Championship (WTC) era, Cummins stands tall as one of the most successful bowlers. With 200 wickets in just 47 matches, he holds the second-highest wicket tally in WTC history, trailing only behind teammate Nathan Lyon (210).
Cummins also holds the distinction of being the first bowler to reach the 200-wicket milestone in WTC. His impressive WTC stats include nine five-wicket hauls, with best figures of 6/91.
Overall in Tests, Cummins has bagged 294 wickets in 67 matches at a superb average of 22.44, including 13 five-wicket hauls—a testament to his consistency and world-class skill.
Success in English Conditions
Bowling with the Dukes ball in England is a different challenge, but Cummins has adapted remarkably well. In 11 Tests on English soil, he has snared 51 wickets at an average of 27.17, with one five-wicket haul to his name.
At the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground, Cummins has already left a mark. In the two Tests he has played at the venue, he has picked up 10 wickets at an excellent average of 21.10. These numbers underline his potential to dominate again when Australia meets South Africa at Lord’s.
Final Thoughts
Pat Cummins continues to be a game-changer—whether it’s tearing through batting line-ups, delivering under pressure, or leading by example. With a stellar record against South Africa, incredible WTC numbers, and proven success in English conditions, Cummins is set to be a major threat when Australia takes the field at Lord’s.