Pat Cummins to replace Starc for remaining 2 India tests

MELBOURNE: Fast bowler Pat Cummins will make his return to test cricket for the first time in more than five years after being named as Mitchell Starc's replacement in the Australian side for the final two tests in India.

Cricket Australia said Saturday the 23-year-old Cummins would replace Starc, who was forced to return home after being diagnosed with a stress fracture in his right foot.

Cummins was named player of the match in his test debut against South Africa at the Wanderers in November 2011, claiming match figures of 7-117. But he has not played a test since due to stress fractures in his back.

Cummins returned to Sheffield Shield domestic cricket for the first time since March 2011 this week, when he played for New South Wales in its win over South Australia. He bowled with pace and accuracy to take 8-104 and also contributed 42 with the bat.

The four-test series in India is level at 1-1 ahead of the start of the third test next Thursday at Ranchi.

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