The Australian Team Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Test Lineup, Possibility Still Ajar for Pat Cummins' Return

The playing eleven for the second Ashes Test is still a mystery just hours out from the match start in the Gabba, with a closer look of the playing surface required before the Australian selectors finalize a squad that may yet include Pat Cummins.

Acting Captain Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith addressed an waiting press on Wednesday but was keeping quiet about the precise composition of the XI. Nonetheless, he kept the possibility alive a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back issue.

“He’s looked very sharp to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” the stand-in captain remarked. “Obviously games are different intensity, but he’s progressing very well, he knows his body well.”

Late Inclusion Still a Live Option

The pace spearhead was not initially selected in Australia’s larger group for the second match, but came along to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the group. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and might still be drafted in at the 11th hour.

“The decision is pending but like I said, he’s near,” Smith continued. “He has completed all the right things the past few days and we’ll see this afternoon when we inspect that pitch whether he’s an option or not.”

Selection Conundrums Ahead if Cummins Returns

A recall for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a few days ago, would result in Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon being omitted.

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

“Uncertain,” he replied. “We will assess the pitch as I said and sum things up from there. This is a ground Nathan has performed brilliantly in the history, he’s a top performer. We’ll weigh up the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Selection

Josh Inglis will also have to find out 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 expected to open the batting 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 Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He plays fast bowling really nicely. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Call Timeline

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

Smith indicated a official announcement on the lineup might come before the day ends, but alternatively, it may wait until the morning of the Test. Play begins at the Gabba at two in the afternoon (3pm AEDT) on tomorrow.