The Australian Team Remains Cagey on Second Ashes Test XI, Door Wide Ajar for Cummins’ Return

The playing eleven for the next Test match is still a mystery just hours before the first ball in Brisbane, with a closer look of the wicket necessary before the hosts announce a squad that could still feature Pat Cummins.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Recall

Acting skipper Steve Smith addressed an expectant media on Wednesday but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the XI. Nonetheless, he left the door open a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back issue.

“He seems very sharp to me, the way he’s performed in training,” the stand-in captain remarked. “Naturally games are different intensity, but he’s coming along well, he is aware of his condition.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Remains a Live Option

The quick was initially left out in Australia’s extended squad for the Brisbane Test, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to work on his fitness with the team. Smith indicated he was on the right track and may be called up at the last minute.

“It's a waiting game but as I mentioned, he’s close,” the captain added. “He’s done all the right things the last little bit and we’ll see later today when we look at that pitch whether he’s an option or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Plays

A comeback for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a short time back, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

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

“Not sure,” he said. “We’ll look at the surface as I said and make a decision from there. This is a ground Nathan has excelled in the history, he’s a top performer. We’ll weigh up the choices and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to wait to learn whether he has made the team. The batter is the prime option to enter the lineup in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander expected to open the batting again after his century in Perth.

“Many options are under consideration,” Smith said. “We’ll wait and see what the pitch is like and from there we’ll decide on a playing XI.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a pretty attacking player,” Smith said. “Performed excellently on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in great nick... He handles pace very well. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”

Last-Minute Call Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to return to the side at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder shifts to number five.

Smith said a definite call on the team is possible later on Wednesday, but equally it could be delayed until the day of the match. The match begins at the Gabba at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.