Australia Remains Cagey on Second Test Lineup, Possibility Still Open for Cummins’ Return

Australia's starting XI for the second Ashes Test remains unknown just hours out from the match start in the Gabba, with a closer look of the wicket necessary before the team management announce a squad that may yet include their captain.

Stand-in Skipper Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on Wednesday but was not disclosing the final selection of the XI. Nonetheless, he did not rule out a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back complaint.

“He’s looked quite impressive to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain said. “Obviously the game is different, but he’s coming along well, he is aware of his condition.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Possibility

The pace spearhead was initially left out in Australia’s 15-man squad for the Brisbane Test, but still travelled to Brisbane to continue his recovery with the group. Smith confirmed he was on the right track and may be drafted in at the last minute.

“We’ll wait and see but as stated, he’s close,” the captain noted. “His rehabilitation has been his work the recent period and we’ll see later today when we look at that surface whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Returns

A return to the side for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would result in recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

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

“Undecided,” he replied. “We’ll look at the pitch as I said and determine our strategy from there. This is a ground Nathan has performed brilliantly in the past, he’s a top performer. We’ll weigh up the choices and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to wait to learn whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the prime option to be included in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head likely to take the opening spot again after his brilliant performance in the first Test.

“Several scenarios are on the table,” Smith said. “We’ll wait and see what the pitch is like and from there we’ll finalize a final team.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a very aggressive player,” Smith said. “Performed excellently on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He faces quicks exceptionally. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Final Decision Timeline

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is in contention to earn a recall at No 6, on the assumption that Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and Cam Green is promoted to number five.

Smith noted a official announcement on the lineup is possible before the day ends, but alternatively, it may wait until the Thursday. Play gets under way at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at two in the afternoon (1500 AEDT) on Thursday.