The Australian Team Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test Lineup, Door Still Ajar for Cummins’ Comeback

Australia's playing eleven for the upcoming Brisbane Test is still a mystery under 24 hours before the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a further inspection of the Gabba pitch needed before the hosts name a team that could still feature the fast bowler.

Stand-in Captain Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith spoke to an journalists on Wednesday but was not disclosing the exact make-up of the XI. Nonetheless, he did not rule out a surprise recall for Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back injury.

“He seems pretty good to me, the way he’s performed in training,” the stand-in captain stated. “Obviously match intensity differs, but he’s progressing very well, he is aware of his condition.”

Late Inclusion Remains a Live Option

The pace spearhead was not initially selected in Australia’s extended squad for the next encounter, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to work on his fitness with the rest of the squad. Smith said he was improving nicely and might still be included at the last minute.

“We’ll wait and see but as I mentioned, he’s not far away,” the captain added. “He has completed all the right things the recent period and we’ll see later today when we look at that surface whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Team Dilemmas Loom if Cummins Returns

A comeback for Cummins, which seemed improbable 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.

“Not sure,” he replied. “We need to examine the pitch as I said and determine our strategy from there. This is a ground Nathan has done really well in the history, he’s a world-class spinner. We must evaluate the choices and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to find out whether he has earned a recall. The player is the frontrunner to come into the XI in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander expected to take the opening spot again after his brilliant performance in the first Test.

“Many options are being discussed,” Smith commented. “It's a matter of waiting what the wicket is like and from there we’ll decide on a playing XI.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a pretty attacking batsman,” Smith added. “Performed excellently on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks very well. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Decision Timeline

In addition to Inglis, the all-rounder is in contention to earn a recall at No 6, on the expectation that Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green moves up to number five.

Smith said a definite call on the team might come this afternoon, but it might also be postponed until the Thursday. The Test starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at two in the afternoon (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.