The Australian Team Stays Cagey on Second Ashes Test Lineup, Door Still Ajar for Pat Cummins' Comeback

Australia's playing eleven for the upcoming Brisbane Test is still a mystery under 24 hours out from the first ball in Brisbane, with a final assessment of the Gabba pitch required before the Australian selectors finalize a squad that might include the fast bowler.

Acting Captain Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Return

Stand-in captain Steve Smith spoke to an waiting press on the eve of the Test but was unable to reveal the precise composition of the XI. Nonetheless, he kept the possibility alive a late inclusion for Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back issue.

“He has appeared quite impressive to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” the stand-in captain remarked. “Naturally games are different intensity, but he’s coming along well, he knows his body well.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Remains a Possibility

The pace spearhead was originally omitted in Australia’s larger group for the second match, but came along to the Gabba to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith indicated he was on the right track and might still be called up at the final moment.

“The decision is pending but like I said, he’s not far away,” the captain added. “His rehabilitation has been all the right things the recent period and we’ll see later today when we assess that surface whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Team Dilemmas Ahead if He Plays

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

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

“Not sure,” he replied. “We’ll look at the surface as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has done really well in the past, he’s a world-class spinner. We must evaluate the options and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Selection

Josh Inglis will also have to wait to learn whether he has been selected. 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 brilliant performance in the first Test.

“Many options are being discussed,” Smith said. “We’ll wait and see what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a lineup.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a very aggressive batsman,” Smith added. “Did really well on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He handles pace exceptionally. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Final Call Timeline

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to earn a recall at number six, on the assumption that Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green shifts to No 5.

Smith noted a definite call on the lineup could be made this afternoon, but alternatively, it may wait until the day of the match. The Test begins at the Gabba at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.