Pat Cummins is getting ready for upcoming November matches

Australia Test captain Pat Cummins is planning a return to Sheffield Shield cricket to prepare for the upcoming Test series against India, starting in late November.

Cummins, who recently finished a stint with Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA, has been rested from Australia's white-ball tour of Scotland and England next month. This break will allow him to focus on strength and conditioning ahead of a busy home summer. The five-Test series against India, followed by two Tests in Sri Lanka, will be critical as Australia aims to qualify for the World Test Championship final at Lord's in June. Currently, Australia is second in the standings, behind India.

The fast bowler last played Sheffield Shield cricket in February 2021 for New South Wales and has only made nine first-class appearances in his career. He is considering participating in either two or three ODIs, along with one or more Sheffield Shield games, to ensure he is match-fit for the Test series.

New South Wales is scheduled to play a Shield match against Victoria on October 20 and face Queensland on November 1. However, the latter fixture overlaps with the start of the ODI series against Pakistan.

Cummins had previously mentioned that missing the England tour was part of a long-term plan to ensure he is in peak condition for the heavy workload ahead, including the Champions Trophy in February 2025 in Pakistan.

"I'll have a good six or eight weeks off bowling where I'll get in the gym every day, do some running, and get some strength back into my body," he said.

Mitchell Starc, who will feature in the ODI series against England after resting from T20Is, and Josh Hazlewood, who will participate in the entire tour, could also make themselves available for New South Wales before the international season. Nathan Lyon is expected to play at least two Sheffield Shield matches before the series against India.

Most of the batters are anticipated to be available for the October Sheffield Shield fixtures, and those not involved in the ODI series against Pakistan could have additional opportunities to play. Additionally, Australia A will face India A in two four-day matches in Mackay and Melbourne.