Australia Stays Cagey on Second Ashes Test XI, Possibility Still Open for Cummins’ Comeback

Australia's lineup for the upcoming Brisbane Test is yet to be decided under 24 hours before the match start in Brisbane, with a further inspection of the wicket required before the Australian selectors announce a squad that might contain their captain.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith spoke to an waiting press on Wednesday but was not disclosing the precise composition of the lineup. Nonetheless, he kept the possibility alive a shock return for Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back complaint.

“He’s looked pretty good to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” Smith remarked. “Of course games are different intensity, but he’s progressing very well, he knows his body well.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Live Option

The fast bowler was not initially selected in Australia’s 15-man squad for the Brisbane Test, but still travelled to the Gabba to work on his fitness with the rest of the squad. Smith said he was improving nicely and may be included at the last minute.

“The decision is pending but as stated, he’s close,” the captain continued. “He has completed his work the past few days and we’ll see this afternoon when we inspect that wicket whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Loom if He Returns

A recall for Cummins, which was in doubt just a recently, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon missing out.

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

“Uncertain,” he said. “We will assess the surface as I said and determine our strategy from there. This is a ground Nathan has performed brilliantly in the history, he’s a top performer. We must evaluate the options and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Recall

Josh Inglis 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 Travis Head likely to open the batting again after his brilliant performance in Perth.

“A heap of things are under consideration,” Smith commented. “We’ll wait and see what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a lineup.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a positive player,” Smith added. “Did really well on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in great nick... He plays fast bowling very well. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Decision Timeline

Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is under consideration to earn a recall at No 6, on the assumption that Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green shifts to No 5.

Smith said a final decision on the team might come before the day ends, but equally it could be delayed until the day of the match. Play begins at the Gabba at 2pm local time (3pm AEDT) on tomorrow.