Cummins played hardball against Bazbáll & if Stokes and England didn't know they have a formidable captain in opposition...they definitely do now

IT turns out this Ashes series will not just have one inspirational leader to marvel at.

- ANDY DUNN

It turns out there is another talismanic skipper, another who can inspire his team-mates by swashbuckling example.

Another who can grab victory from defeat's jaw, another fearless frontman.

In many ways, Pat Cummins and Ben Stokes cut contrasting figures, the rockstar and the lad next door who has done good.

But both are irrepressible flag-bearers for their national team.

And if Stokes and England did not know they have a formidable captain in opposition this summer, they do now.

Because while all manner of incidents and decisions will be highlighted when it comes to deconstructing this painful English loss, one indisputable fact glows the brightest.

When Australia were staring defeat in the face - when Alex Carey smashed a return catch to Joe Root to leave them eight wickets down with 54 still left to win -

Cummins stood tall. He might even have thought, momentarily, about the possibility of asking his tailenders to help him try and see out an unlikely draw.