Fast bowler Pat Cummins addressed the controversy surrounding potential match manipulation against Scotland ahead of Australia's crucial T20 World Cup match. He firmly stated that Australia would never consider such tactics as they go against the spirit of cricket.
Cummins responded to concerns raised after teammate Josh Hazlewood's comments were misinterpreted. He clarified that the Australian team's focus remains on playing their best cricket in every match, including their upcoming fixture against Scotland on June 16 at the Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in St Lucia.
"When you step onto the field, you give your best effort every time. Anything less would go against the spirit of cricket," Cummins, who handed over T20 captaincy to Mitchell Marsh, emphasised during a media interaction.
Regarding Hazlewood's earlier remarks, made in jest after the Namibia match, Cummins explained that they were taken out of context. Hazlewood had casually mentioned the possibility of adjustments depending on tournament standings, but Cummins reiterated that this wouldn't affect their competitive approach against Scotland.
Cummins dismissed any notion of intentionally underperforming against Scotland to alter England's fate in the tournament. "While such discussions might arise, they don't alter our commitment to playing hard and aiming for victory," he affirmed.
Australia's stance comes amid a scenario where Scotland's victory over them could potentially elevate England to the Super 8 stage due to net run-rate calculations. However, Cummins reaffirmed their intent to approach the match with full competitiveness, respecting the integrity of the game and their opponents.