The Australian Team Remains Cagey on Second Test XI, Possibility Wide Ajar for Pat Cummins' Comeback

Australia's playing eleven for the second Ashes Test remains unknown less than a day out from the first ball in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the Gabba pitch necessary before the Australian selectors finalize a side that may yet feature their captain.

Stand-in Captain Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith fronted an expectant media on the eve of the Test but was not disclosing the precise composition of the team. Nonetheless, he kept the possibility alive a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared quite impressive to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” Smith stated. “Obviously match intensity differs, but he’s progressing very well, he understands his fitness.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Still a Live Option

The fast bowler was originally omitted in Australia’s 15-man squad for the second match, but nonetheless went to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith said he was on the right track and might still be included at the final moment.

“The decision is pending but like I said, he’s not far away,” the captain continued. “His rehabilitation has been his work the last little bit and we’ll see after three o’clock when we look at that surface whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Loom if He Plays

A return to the side for Cummins, which was in doubt just a recently, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon losing their place.

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

“Uncertain,” he said. “We will assess the pitch as I said and determine our strategy from there. This is a ground Nathan has excelled in the previous matches, he’s a quality bowler. We will consider the choices and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Selection

Josh Inglis will also have to find out whether he has made the team. The batter is the leading candidate 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 Perth.

“Several scenarios are under consideration,” Smith explained. “The decision is pending what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a lineup.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a pretty attacking player,” Smith added. “Did really well on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks exceptionally. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Final Call Timeline

In addition to Inglis, the all-rounder is under consideration to be selected at No 6, on the assumption that Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder is promoted to number five.

Smith noted a final decision on the lineup is possible before the day ends, but it might also be postponed until the morning of the Test. Play starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 2pm local time (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.