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

Australia's playing eleven for the upcoming Brisbane Test remains unknown just hours before the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a further inspection of the playing surface required before the team management announce a squad that may yet contain Pat Cummins.

Acting Captain Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Return

Stand-in captain Steve Smith addressed an expectant media on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the team. However, he left the door open a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back injury.

“He’s looked quite impressive to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” Smith stated. “Naturally games are different intensity, but he’s tracking really nicely, he is aware of his condition.”

Late Draft Remains a Live Option

The fast bowler was not initially selected in Australia’s 15-man squad for the Brisbane Test, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to rehabilitate with the group. Smith confirmed he was on the right track and might still be drafted in at the 11th hour.

“We’ll wait and see but as stated, he’s close,” Smith added. “His rehabilitation has been everything really well the past few days and we’ll see later today when we inspect that pitch whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Plays

A comeback for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a short time back, would result in Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon losing their place.

Smith refused to guarantee Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the spinner's selection.

“Uncertain,” he replied. “We’ll look at the pitch as I said and make a decision from there. Here’s a place Nathan has performed brilliantly in the past, he’s a quality bowler. We’ll weigh up the choices and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Selection

Josh Inglis will also have to wait to learn whether he has been selected. The batter is the frontrunner to enter the lineup in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head expected to take the opening spot again after his heroics in Perth.

“A heap of things are on the table,” 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 positive player,” Smith said. “Performed excellently on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He handles pace exceptionally. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”

Final Decision Pending

Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is in the mix to be selected at No 6, on the assumption that Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder is promoted to No 5.

Smith noted a final decision on the team is possible this afternoon, but equally it could be delayed until the Thursday. The Test starts at the Gabba at 2pm local time (1500 AEDT) on Thursday.