Australia captain Pat Cummins said he was “gutted” to be ruled out just hours before the second Ashes Test against England. Photo: Lindsey Parnaby / AFPAustralia captain Pat Cummins said he was “gutted” to be ruled out just hours before the second Ashes Test against England on Thursday for being in close contact with a positive Covid-19 case, with Steve Smith making a dramatic return as captain. Cummins isolated when he became aware of the situation and has since returned a negative Covid test. “Gutted to miss this Test but really excited to see (Michael) Neser finally get his chance in the baggy green,” Pat Cummins tweeted, referring to his replacement in the bowling attack. “I think we’re just very fortunate that we’ve got Steve, he’s a very experienced Test captain ready to step in,” said Hockley.

Source: The North Africa Journal December 16, 2021 16:42 UTC