Australia Stays Cagey on Second Test XI, Possibility Still Open for Pat Cummins' Return

Australia's playing eleven for the upcoming Brisbane Test remains unknown less than a day out from the first ball in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the playing surface needed before the hosts name a team that could still feature their captain.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith addressed an journalists on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the exact make-up of the team. However, he kept the possibility alive a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared quite impressive to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” the stand-in captain said. “Naturally match intensity differs, but he’s coming along well, he understands his fitness.”

Late Inclusion Still a Live Option

The fast bowler was originally omitted in Australia’s 15-man squad for the next encounter, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to rehabilitate with the team. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and could yet be called up at the last minute.

“We’ll wait and see but like I said, he’s near,” the captain added. “He’s done his work the recent period and we’ll see this afternoon when we look at that surface whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Returns

A return to the side for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a few days ago, would result in recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon losing their place.

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

“Uncertain,” he responded. “We need to examine the surface as I said and determine our strategy from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the past, he’s a top performer. We will consider the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to see whether he has made the team. The player is the prime option to enter the lineup in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head expected to take the opening spot again after his heroics in the first Test.

“Several scenarios are on the table,” Smith commented. “The decision is pending what the pitch is like and from there we’ll decide on a lineup.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a very aggressive player,” Smith said. “Performed excellently on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He handles pace exceptionally. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”

Last-Minute Call Timeline

In addition to Inglis, the all-rounder is in the mix to be selected at No 6, on the assumption that Travis Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green is promoted to No 5.

Smith indicated a definite call on the XI is possible later on Wednesday, but equally it could be delayed until the morning of the Test. Play starts at the Gabba at 2pm local time (3pm AEDT) on tomorrow.