The Australian Team Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test XI, Door Still Open for Pat Cummins' Return

Australia's playing eleven for the next Test match is yet to be decided just hours out from the opening delivery in Brisbane, with a further inspection of the Gabba pitch required before the hosts name a squad that might include their captain.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith fronted an expectant media on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the team. Nonetheless, he did not rule out a late inclusion for Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back complaint.

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

11th-Hour Draft Remains a Live Option

The pace spearhead was not initially selected in Australia’s larger group for the Brisbane Test, but came along to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith indicated he was on the right track and could yet be included at the last minute.

“It's a waiting game but like I said, he’s not far away,” the captain continued. “His rehabilitation has been his work the recent period and we’ll see later today when we look at that pitch whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Loom if He Plays

A comeback for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would result in Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

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

“Undecided,” he responded. “We need to examine the wicket as I said and make a decision from there. This is a ground Nathan has performed brilliantly in the previous matches, he’s a world-class spinner. We’ll weigh up the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to find out whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the leading candidate to be included in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to open the batting again after his century in the first Test.

“A heap of things are being discussed,” Smith said. “We’ll wait and see what the wicket is like and from there we’ll decide on a lineup.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a positive player,” Smith said. “Impressed on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He faces quicks really nicely. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Final Call Pending

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to be selected at number six, on the assumption that Travis Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder is promoted to number five.

Smith noted a official announcement on the lineup could be made before the day ends, but equally it could be delayed until the Thursday. The Test starts at the Gabba at two in the afternoon (3pm AEDT) on tomorrow.