Australia v New Zealand: Tim Paine says Pat Cummins is clearly the No.1 Test bowler in the world
Pat Cummins could be in for a long stay at the top of the Test bowling rankings as he picks up new skills and develops more variety with experience, says Aussie skipper Tim Paine.
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Pat Cummins is clearly the best bowler in the world and he has the statistics to back it up, says Australia skipper Tim Paine.
The 26-year-old has enjoyed another stunning year, becoming the second-fastest Australian paceman behind Charlie Turner to a 100 Test wickets.
Cummins holds a comfortable lead on top of the ICC Test bowling rankings list, ahead of South African Kagiso Rabada and Kiwi Neil Wagner.
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The right-arm speedster returns to the MCG on Thursday, the scene of his spectacular all-round performance during last year’s Boxing Day Test against India.
Cummins grabbed 6-27 and hit a heroic 63 in the second innings to almost push Australia back towards an unthinkable victory.
Paine says Cummins is relentless and improving all the time as he develops even more variety with his bowling.
“He’s clearly the best bowler in the world, his stats will probably back that up,” Paine said.
“Not just for one series, or one Test, or two Tests here or there, he’s done it every game.
“I think he’s getting better with experience as well, I think you’re noticing he’s not always bowling high-140s anymore, which is a great, great attribute and skill.”
Cummins secured a staggering $3.17 million windfall last Thursday after being picked up by IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders.
The huge payout saw Cummins become the most expensive player in IPL history.
Cummins could be part of a four-pronged pace army for the Boxing Day Test, with Michael Neser a chance to join him, Mitchell Starc and James Pattinson in the Australian team.
Originally published as Australia v New Zealand: Tim Paine says Pat Cummins is clearly the No.1 Test bowler in the world