"It's on us to manage players, the schedule is what it is" - Pat Cummins ahead of ODI series against England
Australia's newly-appointed ODI captain Pat Cummins recently stated that players have to contend with the schedule, however packed it might be. His comments come right after England all-rounder Moeen Ali complained about the issue.
Ali, a member of England's recent T20 World Cup victory, had lamented the short turnaround time and called the scheduling 'horrible'.
Jos Buttler and co. will play a three-match ODI series against Australia, starting 17th November - just three days after featuring in a World Cup final.
New ball pairing Mitch Starc and Josh Hazlewood will reunite tomorrow in Adelaide.
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Speaking ahead of the series, Cummins claimed that players can't do much about the schedule. The 29-year-old thinks that with the 50-over World Cup looming, England, the defending champions, will provide the perfect preparation.
As quoted by Perth Now, Cummins said:
"I think it's on us to manage players, the schedule is what it is. To challenge ourselves against the current title-holders and probably the most in-form team around the world, there's a lot to play for. The last 12-24 months there has been a big focus on T20 cricket and I think that focus now shifts to ODIs with a World Cup in 12 months time."
Pat Cummins, who replaces Aaron Finch in the role, has a massive task ahead of him. The New South Wales bowler struggled in the T20 World Cup, and will be eager to turn the fortunes around for the hosts.
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke was also unimpressed by Moeen Ali's comments.
"They're a class side" - Pat Cummins on England
While Cummins understands that England might be exhausted after a lengthy T20 World Cup, he remains wary of their class.
"They might be a little bit short on sleep but they're a class side," he said. "A few of their squad members for the ODIs weren't in the T20s so they'll be strong, even if a bit tired."
Highlights from a brilliant night in Melbourne where we won the Men's T20 World Cup! 🏆
The Adelaide Oval will host the opening game of the series.