5 Dec 2011

Australia assess long injury list

10:14 am on 5 December 2011

Australia's rookie pace bowling attack did more than well enough in the opening test against New Zealand, but their lineup could be further strengthened by the return from injury of Pat Cummins for the second test starting on Friday in Hobart.

Teenager Cummins was left out of the Brisbane test, but the selectors are hoping he'll have recovered from a heel injury in time for the Hobart match.

The 21 year old Victorian speedster James Pattinson inspired Australia's nine-wicket win in Brisbane at the Gabba yesterday with a second innings haul of 5 for 27.

But the form of opening batsman Phil Hughes is a concern after his scores of 10 and 7 in Brisbane.