The Australian Team Remains Cagey on Second Test Lineup, Door Wide Open for Cummins’ Comeback

Australia's starting XI for the upcoming Brisbane Test is still a mystery less than a day before the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the playing surface required before the hosts announce a team that might contain the fast bowler.

Stand-in Skipper Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith spoke to an journalists on Wednesday but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the lineup. However, he did not rule out a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back issue.

“He seems pretty good to me, the way he’s performed in training,” Smith said. “Naturally games are different intensity, but he’s progressing very well, he knows his body well.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Live Option

The pace spearhead was not initially selected in Australia’s extended squad for the next encounter, but nonetheless went to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the team. Smith said he was improving nicely and could yet be included at the last minute.

“The decision is pending but like I said, he’s close,” the captain noted. “He has completed his work the recent period and we’ll see this afternoon when we assess that wicket whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Returns

A recall for Cummins, which was in doubt just a few days ago, would result in Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith would not confirm Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the spinner's selection.

“Undecided,” he replied. “We need to examine the wicket as I said and sum things up from there. This is a ground Nathan has performed brilliantly in the previous matches, he’s a top performer. We’ll weigh up the options and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Recall

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to wait to learn whether he has made the team. The player is the leading candidate to enter the lineup in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander expected to take the opening spot again after his brilliant performance in the first Test.

“Many options are being discussed,” Smith commented. “The decision is pending what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a lineup.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a very aggressive player,” Smith added. “Performed excellently on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He plays fast bowling exceptionally. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Last-Minute Call Pending

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is in the mix to earn a recall at No 6, on the likelihood that Head opens the batting alongside the other opener, and Cam Green shifts to No 5.

Smith indicated a official announcement on the team is possible before the day ends, but alternatively, it may wait until the day of the match. The match starts at the Gabba at 2pm local time (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.