Australia Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test XI, Possibility Still Open for Cummins’ Return

The playing eleven for the second Ashes Test is yet to be decided just hours before the first ball in Brisbane, with a closer look of the Gabba pitch necessary before the Australian selectors announce a squad that may yet feature the fast bowler.

Acting Captain Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith addressed an waiting press on the eve of the Test but was unable to reveal the exact make-up of the XI. Yet, he left the door open a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was ruled out of the series opener due to a back injury.

“He seems very sharp to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” Smith stated. “Naturally games are different intensity, but he’s tracking really nicely, he is aware of his condition.”

Late Inclusion Remains a Live Option

The fast bowler was not initially selected in Australia’s extended squad for the second match, but nonetheless went to Brisbane to continue his recovery with the rest of the squad. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and might still be called up at the final moment.

“It's a waiting game but as I mentioned, he’s not far away,” the captain continued. “He’s done his work the last little bit and we’ll see later today when we inspect that surface whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Loom if He Returns

A recall for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would mean recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith refused to guarantee Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the spinner's selection.

“Not sure,” he responded. “We will assess the surface as I said and make a decision from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the history, he’s a top performer. We must evaluate the choices and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Recall

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to see whether he has earned a recall. The player is the leading candidate to enter the lineup in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander touted to take the opening spot again after his brilliant performance in Perth.

“Many options are on the table,” Smith explained. “We’ll wait and see what the wicket is like and from there we’ll decide on a playing XI.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a pretty attacking player,” Smith added. “Did really well on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks exceptionally. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Last-Minute Call Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is in contention to earn a recall at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder is promoted to No 5.

Smith said a official announcement on the lineup could be made later on Wednesday, but alternatively, it may wait until the morning of the Test. The Test begins at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.