The Australian Team Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Test XI, Door Wide Open for Cummins’ Comeback

The playing eleven for the next Test match remains unknown less than a day out from the match start in Brisbane, with a final assessment of the playing surface necessary before the team management name a team that may yet contain Pat Cummins.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Return

Stand-in captain Steve Smith spoke to an journalists on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the lineup. However, he left the door open a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was ruled out of the series opener due to a back injury.

“He seems quite impressive to me, the way he’s performed in training,” the stand-in captain remarked. “Naturally match intensity differs, but he’s progressing very well, he understands his fitness.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Live Option

The fast bowler was not initially selected in Australia’s extended squad for the second match, but came along to the Gabba to work on his fitness with the group. Smith confirmed he was improving nicely and may be included at the 11th hour.

“The decision is pending but as I mentioned, he’s near,” the captain noted. “His rehabilitation has been all the right things the last little bit and we’ll see after three o’clock when we assess that wicket whether he’s an option or not.”

Team Conundrums Loom if Cummins Plays

A return to the side for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would mean recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon losing their place.

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

“Undecided,” he said. “We need to examine the pitch as I said and make a decision from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the history, he’s a quality bowler. We must evaluate the choices and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to find out whether he has been selected. The player is the frontrunner to be included in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head touted to open the batting again after his brilliant performance in the first Test.

“Many options are under consideration,” Smith said. “The decision is pending what the pitch is like and from there we’ll determine a final team.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a pretty attacking player,” Smith added. “Performed excellently on his debut in the subcontinent, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks really nicely. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Last-Minute Call Pending

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to return to the side at No 6, on the assumption that Head opens the batting alongside the other opener, and Cam Green moves up to number five.

Smith noted a official announcement on the lineup might come before the day ends, but alternatively, it may wait until the morning of the Test. The Test starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at two in the afternoon (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.