The Australian Team Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test Lineup, Door Wide Open for Pat Cummins' Comeback

Australia's playing eleven for the upcoming Brisbane Test is yet to be decided less than a day out from the first ball in the Gabba, with a further inspection of the playing surface required before the team management finalize a team that might include Pat Cummins.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Recall

Stand-in captain Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the final selection of the lineup. Nonetheless, he kept the possibility alive a late inclusion for Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared very sharp to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” Smith remarked. “Of course match intensity differs, but he’s progressing very well, he knows his body well.”

Late Draft Remains a Possibility

The quick was not initially selected in Australia’s extended squad for the second match, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith confirmed he was progressing well and might still be called up at the last minute.

“It's a waiting game but as stated, he’s not far away,” the captain noted. “He’s done everything really well the past few days and we’ll see later today when we look at that pitch whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Conundrums Ahead if Cummins Returns

A recall for Cummins, which was in doubt just a few days ago, would lead to recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith did not assure Lyon’s place in the team when pressed about the off-spinner’s inclusion.

“Uncertain,” he said. “We will assess the pitch as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has done really well in the past, he’s a world-class spinner. We’ll weigh up the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Selection

Josh Inglis will also have to find out whether he has made the team. The player is the prime option to enter the lineup in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to open the batting again after his heroics in Perth.

“Many options are under consideration,” Smith commented. “We’ll wait and see what the wicket is like and from there we’ll decide on a final team.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a pretty attacking batsman,” Smith said. “Impressed on his first Test in the subcontinent, he’s been in great nick... He faces quicks exceptionally. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Last-Minute Call Timeline

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to earn a recall at No 6, on the expectation that Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder moves up to number five.

Smith noted a official announcement on the XI could be made this afternoon, but equally it could be delayed until the Thursday. Play starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 2pm local time (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.