Australia Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Test XI, Possibility Wide Open for Cummins’ Return

Australia's starting XI for the second Ashes Test remains unknown under 24 hours before the match start in Brisbane, with a further inspection of the playing surface required before the team management announce a team that could still feature Pat Cummins.

Acting Skipper Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith spoke to an waiting press on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the exact make-up of the lineup. Yet, he left the door open a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was ruled out of the first Test due to a back issue.

“He’s looked pretty good to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” Smith stated. “Obviously games are different intensity, but he’s tracking really nicely, he is aware of his condition.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Live Option

The quick was originally omitted in Australia’s larger group for the second match, but came along to Brisbane to continue his recovery with the team. Smith confirmed he was progressing well and may be drafted in at the 11th hour.

“The decision is pending but as I mentioned, he’s near,” Smith continued. “He has completed all the right things the recent period and we’ll see later today when we inspect that surface whether he’s in contention or not.”

Team Dilemmas Loom if Cummins Plays

A return to the side for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a few days ago, would result in 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 need to examine the wicket as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the previous matches, he’s a world-class spinner. We’ll weigh up the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Recall

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to see 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 open the batting again after his century in Perth.

“Many options are under consideration,” Smith commented. “The decision is pending what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a playing XI.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a positive player,” Smith added. “Did really well on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks really nicely. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Last-Minute Call Pending

Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is in contention to be selected at No 6, on the likelihood that Head opens the batting alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder moves up to No 5.

Smith indicated a official announcement on the XI might come this afternoon, but alternatively, it may wait until the Thursday. The Test begins at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at two in the afternoon (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.