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

Australia's starting XI for the next Test match is still a mystery under 24 hours out from the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a closer look of the Gabba pitch needed before the Australian selectors announce a side that might contain Pat Cummins.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Return

Stand-in captain Steve Smith spoke to an journalists on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the precise composition of the lineup. However, he did not rule out a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the series opener due to a back issue.

“He’s looked pretty good to me, the way he’s performed in training,” the stand-in captain remarked. “Obviously the game is different, but he’s coming along well, he knows his body well.”

Late Inclusion Remains a Live Option

The fast bowler was originally omitted in Australia’s extended squad for the next encounter, but came along to the Gabba to continue his recovery with the rest of the squad. Smith said he was on the right track and could yet be called up at the 11th hour.

“The decision is pending but as I mentioned, he’s near,” the captain noted. “He has completed everything really well the past few days and we’ll see after three o’clock when we look at that surface whether he’s an option or not.”

Selection Conundrums Ahead if Cummins Returns

A recall for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a short time back, would lead to recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon losing their place.

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

“Not sure,” he responded. “We will assess the pitch as I said and sum things up from there. This is a ground Nathan has done really well in the past, he’s a world-class spinner. We will consider the choices and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Recall

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to find out whether he has been selected. The batter is the prime option 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 heroics in Perth.

“Many options are on the table,” Smith explained. “It's a matter of waiting what the pitch is like and from there we’ll finalize a lineup.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a very aggressive player,” Smith added. “Impressed on his first Test in the subcontinent, he’s been in great nick... He plays fast bowling very well. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Decision Pending

Along with 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 shifts to number five.

Smith said a final decision on the lineup might come this afternoon, but alternatively, it may wait until the Thursday. Play gets under way at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 2pm local time (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.