The Australian Team Stays Cagey on Second Ashes Test Lineup, Door Wide Ajar for Pat Cummins' Comeback

The lineup for the upcoming Brisbane Test remains unknown less than a day out from the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the Gabba pitch required before the team management announce a team that could still feature the fast bowler.

Acting Captain Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Return

Stand-in captain Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on the eve of the Test but was unable to reveal the final selection of the team. Nonetheless, he left the door open a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back complaint.

“He seems quite impressive to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain remarked. “Of course games are different intensity, but he’s tracking really nicely, he is aware of his condition.”

Late Inclusion Still a Possibility

The quick was initially left out in Australia’s extended squad for the next encounter, but came along to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith said he was improving nicely and may be included at the last minute.

“We’ll wait and see but as stated, he’s not far away,” Smith noted. “He’s done everything really well the recent period and we’ll see this afternoon when we assess that pitch whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Returns

A comeback for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a recently, would result in Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

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

“Undecided,” he replied. “We need to examine the wicket as I said and make a decision from there. Here’s a place Nathan has performed brilliantly in the history, he’s a quality bowler. We must evaluate the options and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to see whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the leading candidate to come into the XI in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head touted to take the opening spot again after his century in the first Test.

“Several scenarios are being discussed,” Smith explained. “It's a matter of waiting what the wicket is like and from there we’ll finalize a playing XI.”

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

Last-Minute Decision Pending

In addition to Inglis, the all-rounder is in contention to earn a recall at number six, on the likelihood that Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder is promoted to number five.

Smith indicated a final decision on the lineup is possible this afternoon, but alternatively, it may wait until the day of the match. Play begins at the Gabba at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.