Australia Captain Pat Cummins Evaluates Selection Options Ahead of Fourth Ashes Test

Australia's captain, Pat Cummins, has stated that all selection options will be considered as he chooses the playing XI for the crucial fourth Ashes Test against England in Manchester. After suffering a three-wicket defeat at Headingley, Australia had their first loss in the new ICC World Test Championship cycle. However, they now have ample time to reflect on the defeat and strategize ahead of the next Test at Old Trafford, starting on July 19.

Cummins expects to have all-rounder Cameron Green and experienced seamer Josh Hazlewood available for selection after they missed the third Test. In addition, there might be a re-shuffle at the top of the batting order to bolster Australia's 2-1 series lead. Veteran opener David Warner has struggled, scoring only 141 runs in the series at an average of 23.50, with Stuart Broad dismissing him twice at Headingley.

Cummins emphasized that all options will be on the table when selecting the XI for Manchester, with the final decision depending on the conditions and state of the pitch closer to the Test.

"We've got nine or 10 days now, so we'll take a deep breath. We'll go away for a few days. But everyone comes back into it. Greeny should be fit for Manchester. Josh (Hazlewood) will be back in there as well. So we should have a full roster, and we'll have a look at the wicket and have a chat and work out the best XI," Cummins stated.

While Cummins did not guarantee all-rounder Mitch Marsh a spot in the team, he acknowledged that leaving out the 31-year-old would be challenging after his exceptional century at Headingley and his solid contributions with the ball. The Australian team will carefully assess the situation before finalizing the playing XI for the crucial fourth Test of the Ashes series.