Australia Stays Cagey on Second Ashes Test Lineup, Possibility Wide Ajar for Cummins’ Comeback

Australia's playing eleven for the second Ashes Test remains unknown under 24 hours out from the match start in Brisbane, with a closer look of the Gabba pitch necessary before the Australian selectors announce a squad that might include their captain.

Stand-in Skipper Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith fronted an journalists on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the team. Yet, he did not rule out a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back injury.

“He’s looked quite impressive to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain remarked. “Obviously games are different intensity, but he’s progressing very well, he understands his fitness.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Live Option

The quick was not initially selected in Australia’s larger group for the next encounter, but came along to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith said he was improving nicely and might still be called up at the 11th hour.

“The decision is pending but as stated, he’s close,” the captain continued. “He has completed everything really well the last little bit and we’ll see this afternoon when we look at that pitch whether he’s an option or not.”

Team Dilemmas Loom if He Plays

A recall for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would mean recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon being omitted.

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

“Not sure,” he said. “We will assess the surface as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has done really well in the previous matches, he’s a quality bowler. 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 made the team. The player is the frontrunner to be included in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander expected to take the opening spot again after his heroics in Perth.

“Several scenarios are on the table,” Smith commented. “The decision is pending what the pitch is like and from there we’ll determine a final team.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a pretty attacking batsman,” Smith added. “Impressed on his debut in the subcontinent, he’s been in really good form... He plays fast bowling really nicely. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Final Call Pending

Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is under consideration to be selected at number six, on the expectation that Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green shifts to No 5.

Smith indicated a final decision on the XI might come later on Wednesday, but equally it could be delayed until the morning of the Test. The match begins at the Gabba at two in the afternoon (1500 AEDT) on Thursday.