ICC World Cup 2023:'Is that really you, Virat Kohli?' – Pat Cummins playful sledge steals the spotlight
Xtra Time Web Desk: Australia captain Pat Cummins was recently seen practicing his sledging skills for Virat Kohli in a promotional clip for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The highly anticipated tournament is set to begin on February 19, with Kohli expected to be one of the marquee players to watch.
In the viral video, Cummins, while shaving in front of a mirror, humorously critiques Kohli’s strike rate, attempting to throw the Indian batter off his game. “Hey Kohli, I’ve never seen you bat this slowly. Slowly!” he quips, showcasing a rare playful side that has delighted cricket fans across social media.
Cummins' availability in doubt
However, despite his on-screen presence, Cummins' participation in the Champions Trophy remains uncertain. Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald recently hinted that the pacer is unlikely to feature in the tournament, citing both personal and fitness-related reasons.
Now way Pat Cummins owned Chappal Chor Chokli ????????pic.twitter.com/dJYQPFZDwK
— ' (@dhoniverse_) February 4, 2025
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Cummins opted out of Australia's ongoing Test tour of Sri Lanka to be with his family for the birth of his second child, while also managing an ankle injury aggravated during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
"Pat Cummins hasn't resumed any form of bowling, so he's heavily unlikely [to play]. That means we need a captain. Steve Smith and Travis Head are the two players we've been considering for the leadership role," McDonald told SEN.
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Cummins' absence would be a significant blow for Australia, given his remarkable record as captain. He led the team to triumphs in the World Test Championship and ODI World Cup in 2023 and currently holds Test bilateral series trophies against all opponents he has captained against.
With the ICC World Test Championship final against South Africa scheduled for June 2025 at Lord’s, Australian fans will be hoping for Cummins’ swift recovery to lead the team on another global stage.
