Australia Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test XI, Possibility Still Open for Cummins’ Return

Australia's lineup for the next Test match is still a mystery under 24 hours out from the opening delivery in Brisbane, with a final assessment of the playing surface needed before the Australian selectors finalize a side that may yet feature Pat Cummins.

Stand-in Skipper Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith spoke to an waiting press on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the exact make-up of the lineup. Yet, he did not rule out a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared quite impressive to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” Smith remarked. “Of course the game is different, but he’s coming along well, he knows his body well.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Still a Possibility

The quick was originally omitted in Australia’s extended squad for the second match, but nonetheless went to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the group. Smith indicated he was progressing well and could yet be included at the last minute.

“The decision is pending but like I said, he’s close,” the captain noted. “His rehabilitation has been everything really well the past few days and we’ll see after three o’clock when we inspect that pitch whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Team Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Plays

A comeback for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would lead to Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon being omitted.

Smith refused to guarantee Lyon’s place in the team when asked about the spinner's selection.

“Uncertain,” he responded. “We will assess the wicket as I said and make a decision from there. This is a ground Nathan has done really well in the history, he’s a quality bowler. We must evaluate the choices and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to wait to learn whether he has earned a recall. The player is the frontrunner to be included in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander touted to open the batting again after his century in the first Test.

“Several scenarios are on the table,” Smith explained. “It's a matter of waiting what the wicket is like and from there we’ll finalize a final team.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a very aggressive batsman,” Smith said. “Did really well on his debut in the subcontinent, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks very well. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Last-Minute Decision Timeline

In addition to Inglis, the all-rounder is in contention to be selected at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder moves up to No 5.

Smith said a definite call on the team is possible this afternoon, but equally it could be delayed until the morning of the Test. The Test gets under way at the Gabba at 1400 local (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.