Australia Remains Cagey on Second Ashes Test XI, Door Still Ajar for Pat Cummins' Return

The lineup for the next Test match is still a mystery under 24 hours out from the first ball in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the Gabba pitch needed before the hosts announce a side that might feature Pat Cummins.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Recall

Acting skipper Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on the eve of the Test but was unable to reveal the final selection of the lineup. However, he left the door open a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared pretty good to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” Smith stated. “Naturally the game is different, but he’s progressing very well, he knows his body well.”

Late Draft Still a Live Option

The quick was not initially selected in Australia’s 15-man squad for the second match, but came along to Brisbane to continue his recovery with the rest of the squad. Smith confirmed he was progressing well and may be included at the last minute.

“The decision is pending but like I said, he’s close,” the captain added. “He has completed everything really well the last little bit and we’ll see later today when we look at that surface whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Team Dilemmas Loom if Cummins Plays

A comeback for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a short time back, would mean recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon being omitted.

Smith refused to guarantee Lyon’s place in the team when asked about the off-spinner’s inclusion.

“Not sure,” he replied. “We need to examine the surface as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the previous matches, he’s a top performer. We will consider the choices and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Selection

Josh Inglis will also have to see whether he has been selected. The batter is the prime option to be included in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to take the opening spot again after his century in Perth.

“A heap of things are being discussed,” Smith commented. “The decision is pending what the pitch is like and from there we’ll finalize a final team.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a pretty attacking batsman,” Smith said. “Impressed on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He handles pace really nicely. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”

Last-Minute Call Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is in the mix to be selected at number six, on the assumption that Travis Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green moves up to number five.

Smith indicated a definite call on the XI might come this afternoon, but equally it could be delayed until the morning of the Test. The Test begins at the Gabba at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.