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Measured approach has Cummins flying

Speedster reveals secret to improved pace and discusses bowling alongside the best quick in the world

Aussie speedster Pat Cummins has revealed the secret to his blinding pace is a new and improved run-up.

Cummins was the pick of Australia’s bowlers in the five-run T20 international loss to England on Monday, regularly hitting 145kph (90mph) in his four overs of 2-25 in Cardiff.

The 22-year-old topped out around 151kph (94mph) and says his amended approach to the wicket has helped generate that extra speed.

"I've started measuring it for once," Cummins said, whose run-up stretches 20.2m from the popping crease.

"I used to step it out. Some games, from one end it'd be a metre in front of someone and down the other end it would be a metre behind. 

"Now I've got the ruler and measuring tape out it's a bit more consistent.

Highlights of England's narrow win in Cardiff

"I'm trying to get as many things consistent (as possible), so hopefully by the time I release the ball I don't have to worry about all those things that came before and it's pretty similar every ball.

"I've felt good for a while. I think the past couple of months have given me an opportunity to work on probably my run-up more than anything. 

"That's probably the biggest difference. It feels smooth and, fortunately, it feels like it's coming out at a pretty good clip."

Cummins is one member of Australia’s hostile quartet of fast bowlers who on their day can all reach speeds in excess of 150kph.

In the absence of long-time spearhead Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Starc is leading the pace pack as the world’s premier bowler in 50-over cricket.

Starc’s stunning ascension to the 50-over bowling throne was capped off in Australia’s successful World Cup campaign earlier this year where the lissom left-armer was crowned the player of the tournament with 22 wickets at 10 apiece.

Watch: Cummins rips through Hales with pace

Cummins says chatting to his NSW Blues and Australia teammate has helped hone his one-day game as Australia prepare to battle England in five ODIs starting on Thursday in Southampton. 

"Having the No.1 (ODI) bowler in the world, Mitchell Starc, he's pretty good - especially (about) his yorkers,” Cummins said. 

"His yorkers are probably one of the best in the world, so I talk to him a little bit about that.

"We all see the game differently and give some ideas while we're in the middle of the field. That's probably the biggest help.

"He's (Starc) great. He's played quite a bit of cricket now, so he's someone good to talk to.

"A good thing at the moment is that everyone gets along really well. There's just a great mood, so you feel very comfortable talking and asking a question."