Australia Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test Lineup, Door Wide Open for Cummins’ Return

The starting XI for the upcoming Brisbane Test is still a mystery just hours out from the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a further inspection of the playing surface required before the team management name a squad that could still contain Pat Cummins.

Acting Captain Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith addressed an journalists on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the XI. However, he did not rule out a shock return for Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back issue.

“He’s looked quite impressive to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” Smith stated. “Naturally the game is different, but he’s tracking really nicely, he knows his body well.”

Late Draft Still a Live Option

The pace spearhead was initially left out in Australia’s 15-man squad for the second match, but came along to the Gabba to work on his fitness with the rest of the squad. Smith said he was progressing well and could yet be included at the last minute.

“It's a waiting game but as I mentioned, he’s close,” Smith continued. “He has completed his work the last little bit and we’ll see later today when we look at that wicket whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Team Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Plays

A return to the side for Cummins, which was in doubt just a recently, would mean recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon being omitted.

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

“Uncertain,” he replied. “We will assess the pitch as I said and determine our strategy from there. This is a ground Nathan has done really well in the history, he’s a world-class spinner. We must evaluate the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Recall

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to see whether he has earned a recall. The player is the prime option to enter the lineup 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.

“A heap of things are being discussed,” Smith explained. “It's a matter of waiting what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a final team.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a very aggressive player,” Smith said. “Performed excellently on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in great nick... He faces quicks really nicely. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Decision Pending

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is in contention to return to the side at No 6, on the expectation that Travis Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder moves up to number five.

Smith noted a definite call on the lineup could be made this afternoon, but it might also be postponed until the Thursday. The match gets under way at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 1400 local (3pm AEDT) on tomorrow.