Business of Sport Pat Cummins: Winning the Ashes, Magic of the IPL & The Art of Bowling in a Batters Era (Ep.112)
Mar 24, 2026
Pat Cummins, Australian Test captain known for leading the Ashes and IPL stints, shares big-picture stories. He discusses captaining through Ashes pressure and the role of individual flair in team success. He digs into the IPL’s commercial pull, player exposure and franchise dynamics. He also talks bowling tactics in a batter-dominant era and balancing cricket with family, investing and life beyond the game.
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How Pat Managed Injury Before The IPL
- Pat missed most of the Ashes due to a back injury but played the Adelaide Test and recovered gradually, bowling in nets before the IPL.
- He mapped a plan to be match-ready mid-IPL, expecting to play the tournament's back half and finals.
T20 Has Evolved Into Deliberate Power Batting
- T20 strategy has shifted from test-like innings to deliberately ultra-aggressive batting, often batting deep and exploiting improved pitches and rule changes.
- Pat notes rule tweaks (extra batter/impact player) and young players' confidence have led to 250+ totals and more sixes.
Reset Your Bowling Expectations In T20
- Reset bowling expectations: conceding 11 an over in modern T20 can still be match-winning if you bowl key overs well.
- Pat recommends creativity over perfection and focuses on executing a few match-turning overs rather than flawless figures.