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

Australia's starting XI for the second Ashes Test is yet to be decided less than a day before the first ball in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the playing surface necessary before the Australian selectors announce a side that may yet feature Pat Cummins.

Stand-in Captain Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Recall

Acting skipper Steve Smith addressed an journalists on Wednesday but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the team. Nonetheless, he kept the possibility alive a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back issue.

“He seems pretty good to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain said. “Naturally games are different intensity, but he’s progressing very well, he understands his fitness.”

Late Inclusion Remains a Possibility

The quick was not initially selected in Australia’s 15-man squad for the next encounter, but still travelled to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the team. Smith indicated he was progressing well and could yet be called up at the final moment.

“The decision is pending but as stated, he’s close,” the captain added. “He has completed everything really well the last little bit and we’ll see later today when we assess that pitch whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Loom if He Plays

A return to the side for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a short time back, would lead to Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon being omitted.

Smith did not assure Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the spinner's inclusion.

“Uncertain,” he responded. “We will assess the wicket as I said and determine our strategy from there. This is a ground Nathan has excelled in the previous matches, he’s a top performer. We’ll weigh up the choices and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Selection

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

“Several scenarios are being discussed,” Smith commented. “We’ll wait and see what the wicket is like and from there we’ll decide on a playing XI.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a pretty attacking batsman,” Smith said. “Impressed on his first Test in the subcontinent, he’s been in great nick... He faces quicks really nicely. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Last-Minute Call Timeline

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is in the mix to earn a recall at No 6, on the likelihood that Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green is promoted to No 5.

Smith indicated a official announcement on the team could be made before the day ends, but alternatively, it may wait until the day of the match. The Test starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at two in the afternoon (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.