Australia is optimistic about Travis Head’s participation in the second Test against West Indies despite him battling Covid since the first game in Adelaide. Head, who delayed his arrival in Brisbane for an extra day of recovery, is expected to join the squad for training at the Gabba. Although there’s hope he will test negative before the game, even if positive, he can still play with additional protocols in place.
“Think he’s almost out of it. He’s fine, feeling good,” said Pat Cummins. “Think he’ll train tonight. Obviously, even if he’s still positive he can still play; there’ll just be a few protocols. But think he’s pretty close to a negative.”
Last season, Matt Renshaw dealt with Covid during a comeback game against South Africa and was isolated from teammates while off the field. With Usman Khawaja clearing concussion tests, Australia is expected to remain unchanged. Renshaw, released for the BBL final, will rejoin the Test squad afterward.
Head played a crucial role in Adelaide, scoring 119 off 134 balls, turning Australia’s uncertain first innings into a lead. The Gabba pitch, hosting its third day-night Test, appears to have a green tinge, with groundsmen aiming for a competitive balance between bat and ball, avoiding a repeat of last year’s match against South Africa, which ended in two days.
“The aim is definitely to wind it back from what it was last year for sure, but we have to be careful we don’t go too far,” said head groundsman Dave Sandurski. “We want a contest between bat and ball. We don’t want a T20 batathon. We have to find a happy [middle] ground and hopefully we will find it this year.”
Cummins, expressing preference for matches where the ball holds sway, noted the importance of a good contest between bat and ball. Despite Australia’s strong bowling attack, he believes the shorter Tests this summer have been enthralling, with every session carrying significance. Australia’s three frontline quicks boast averages under 20 in day-night Tests, posing challenges for West Indies’ batters.
However, the weather forecast for Brisbane has raised concerns, with significant rain expected over the weekend, potentially affecting the match duration. Despite this, Cummins remains optimistic about the quality of cricket, emphasizing the balance between bat and ball for an engaging contest.
“Ideally you want it to go a bit longer than two days, but you want it to be a good contest between bat and ball. A couple of the Tests this summer have been fantastic; it feels like every session has importance, and each side can win.”
For More Related Updates Please Visit Our Official Website
By- Sahiba Suri