'Had No Idea He Was On 98': Pat Cummins Clarifies After Hitting Winning Runs, Denying Alex Carey Of Hundred

Australia secured a hard-fought victory in the 2nd NZ vs AUS Test Match. Alex Carey finished unbeaten at 98* as Pat Cummins struck a boundary, ensuring the visitors' triumph in Christchurch.

Pat Cummins and Alex Carey of Australia looking on during Australia training prior to the ICC World Test Championship Final 2023 at The Oval on June 06, 2023 in London, England.

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Australia secured an exciting three-wicket victory over New Zealand in the second Test in Christchurch on March 11 (Monday). Marking a comeback from a challenging position, Australia found themselves at 80-5 on the morning of Day 4. Nevertheless, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey and captain Pat Cummins orchestrated a successful chase, with Carey playing a heroic innings of an unbeaten 98, guiding Australia past the target of 279 runs. However, what captured the attention of many was Alex Carey narrowly missing out on reaching his century, even though there were still 2 runs left to be scored.

Pat Cummins Says He Was Unaware Of Alex Carey's Score

Requiring 2 runs for victory, Australia captain Pat Cummins struck a boundary against Ben Sears, leading Australia to a 3-wicket win. When questioned about Carey falling short of his century after the match, Cummins mentioned that he was unaware that the batter was batting at 98 not out.

“Pretty tense, everyone was nervous the last couple of hours. Amazing win. (On winning runs) Anyway possible to win, I had no idea he (Carey) was on 98. The toss helped, it was funny how quickly the match moved on Day 1,” said Cummins after the match as quoted by Cricbuzz.

'Test Matches, Best Format Of Cricket'

Pat Cummins emphasized the significance of first-innings leads in Test matches, highlighting their crucial role in creating pressure on the opposition. He urged his team to maintain a proactive approach, keep the scoreboard ticking, and rely on the experience within the squad. Cummins commended the players for stepping up in crucial moments throughout the series, emphasizing the gratification of success in the Test format.

“First innings leads are always key for this reason. We've been on the other side of Tests plenty of time, I just told the boys to keep the scoreboard moving, stay busy and put the pressure on the opposition. We've got an experienced side, the story of this series has been guys standing up in crunch moments. Love playing Test matches, best format of cricket and it pays off on days like this,” concluded Cummins.