Pat Cummins' INR 15.50 crore prize tag at the end of the IPL 2020 auction in December raised eyebrows around the world as the Australian pacer became the most expensive overseas cricketer ahead of the league's 13th edition, which continues to remain suspended due to COVID-19 pandemic.
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Despite all the talks around that massive deal, the 27-year-old speedster says his life hasn't changed one bit because he has never been the sort to be too affected by either success or failure.
"I would like to think my life doesn't change much at all," Cummins told PTI in an exclusive interaction.
"I try my best in every game I play but I try to not let any successes or setbacks change my life too much," he added.
Asked whether the high of that day has faded away, Cummins replied: "Not really. May be, once I get over there to play."
Ever since the advent of private T20 leagues, a number of cricketers have changed priorities but Cummins still holds the longest format close to his heart.
"I grew up watching and loving Test cricket and nothing has changed. I think it is the most challenging format because it tests your skill, stamina, mental strength. Each and every Test win is incredibly satisfying," said Cummins, who has 143 wickets from 30 Tests at an impressive average of 21.82.
With Cricket Australia allowing its players to start outdoor training, the fast bowler is back sweating it out in the nets but said that it would take some time to reach peak match condition.
"It takes at least a couple of months to build back up to full pace and fitness but luckily we have some time. We started bowling two weeks ago. So, we will be ready for when we start," he said.
According to Cummins, it would be ideal to start with the T20 format in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic as it would help him get ready for the rigours of five-day cricket later in the summer against Afghanistan and India.
"White ball is certainly a bit easier physically to prepare for. It's good that by the time Tests start in November-December, we would have built up in T20s and ODIs so should be fine," he stated.
Cummins is also looking forward to the Day/Night Test against India at Adelaide from 11-15 December.
"We enjoy the Pink Ball Tests, especially at Adelaide where it is a great spectacle," he said.
(With PTI inputs)
