Pat Cummins has ramped up his bowling at New South Wales training as the Australia captain aims to be fit for the second Test of the Ashes.

Already ruled out of the eagerly anticipated opener in Perth, starting on November 21, Cummins is shaping as a genuine chance to feature in the day-night Test at the Gabba.

Cummins this week conceded playing unchanged from the second Test until the end of the series was unlikely given he is recovering from stress in his back.

Cummins put in a solid session at the SCG on Saturday as NSW prepare to host Victoria in the Sheffield Shield, starting Monday. Hewas sending balls down at full pace in the nets in an encouraging sign.

Australia will go into the first Test with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Boland, with all three to play in the Shield

See Full Page