‘There will be some changes’: Pat Cummins hits out at Test turmoil after South Africa defeat

Australia captain Pat Cummins admitted the team could make changes after South Africa beat them by 176 runs in the third Test at Newlands on Saturday to clinch the series 2-1.It was Australia’s second defeat in a row, with South Africa also moving to the top of the International Cricket Council rankings.“I still think we’re a really good side,” Cummins told reporters. “We’ve now played the number one side in their own country, we’ve had our moments in every test.However, Cummins acknowledged Australia will need to assess whether changes are necessary as they prepare for a busy Test cricket schedule next year.“We will be asking these questions internally as well,” he said. “We have to improve if we want to get back to number one. Maybe there will be some changes in style, changes in the squad.”Cummins said Australia’s chances of chasing the target of 288 were dealt a blow when Kagiso Rabada claimed two wickets in the first over of the innings. Rabada picked up another wicket in his opening spell, removing Australia’s top three batsmen and leaving the visitors with an uphill task.Australia were eventually bowled out for 111, with Simon Harmer taking a career-best six for 16 in 21.1 overs.South Africa captain Temba Bavuma said the series win reflected the character of his team. He pointed to the fourth-day partnership between centurions Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder and said it showed the team’s ability to fight back after trailing in the match on the first three days.“When the batsmen did what they did, the bowlers had confidence. The way Rabada started today, he got everything going. We were able to keep things tight from then on.”Bavuma also said Harmer’s performance, which earned him the Player of the Match award with figures of 10 for 120, underlined the strength of South Africa’s bowling attack.“She was the backbone of our team,” Bavuma said. “It’s been a big part of why we’ve been successful. When the wicket suits the fast bowlers, we’ve got the guys. And when the spinners come in, we’ve got that ability too.”