The Australian Team Stays Cagey on Second Ashes Test XI, Door Still Ajar for Cummins’ Return

The playing eleven for the upcoming Brisbane Test is still a mystery less than a day out from the first ball in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the wicket required before the team management announce a squad that might feature Pat Cummins.

Acting Captain Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith fronted an journalists on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the exact make-up of the team. Yet, he kept the possibility alive a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was ruled out of the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared very sharp to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” the stand-in captain said. “Of course the game is different, but he’s progressing very well, he is aware of his condition.”

Late Draft Still a Live Option

The fast bowler was not initially selected in Australia’s extended squad for the second match, but still travelled to the Gabba to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith said he was progressing well and may be drafted in at the last minute.

“The decision is pending but as I mentioned, he’s not far away,” the captain noted. “He has completed everything really well the recent period and we’ll see after three o’clock when we look at that pitch whether he’s in contention or not.”

Team Conundrums Ahead if Cummins Returns

A return to the side for Cummins, which was in doubt just a recently, would mean recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon being omitted.

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

“Uncertain,” he said. “We will assess the pitch as I said and make a decision from there. Here’s a place Nathan has performed brilliantly in the previous matches, he’s a top performer. We will consider the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Recall

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to wait to learn whether he has been selected. The player is the leading candidate to be included in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to take the opening spot again after his century in the first Test.

“Many options are under consideration,” Smith commented. “It's a matter of waiting what the pitch is like and from there we’ll finalize a final team.”

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

Final Decision Timeline

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to return to the side at number six, on the assumption that Travis Head opens the batting alongside the other opener, and Cam Green is promoted to number five.

Smith noted a official announcement on the lineup could be made later on Wednesday, but it might also be postponed until the Thursday. Play begins at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 2pm local time (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.