Australia Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Test XI, Door Wide Ajar for Cummins’ Return

Australia's playing eleven for the upcoming Brisbane Test is still a mystery just hours before the first ball in Brisbane, with a final assessment of the Gabba pitch required before the hosts finalize a squad that might contain their captain.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Recall

Acting skipper Steve Smith addressed an waiting press on the eve of the Test but was unable to reveal the exact make-up of the lineup. However, he kept the possibility alive a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back injury.

“He has appeared very sharp to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” Smith remarked. “Naturally match intensity differs, but he’s progressing very well, he is aware of his condition.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Possibility

The pace spearhead was not initially selected in Australia’s 15-man squad for the Brisbane Test, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to work on his fitness with the group. Smith confirmed he was progressing well and could yet be called up at the final moment.

“It's a waiting game but as stated, he’s near,” the captain noted. “He’s done all the right things the recent period and we’ll see this afternoon when we look at that surface whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Team Conundrums Loom if He Plays

A recall for Cummins, which was in doubt just a short time back, would lead to Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon being omitted.

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

“Not sure,” he responded. “We will assess the wicket as I said and determine our strategy from there. This is a ground Nathan has excelled in the previous matches, he’s a quality bowler. We’ll weigh up the choices and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to see whether he has been selected. The batter 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 being discussed,” Smith explained. “The decision is pending what the pitch is like and from there we’ll determine a lineup.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a positive player,” Smith added. “Did really well on his first Test in the subcontinent, he’s been in great nick... He handles pace very well. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Final Call Pending

In addition to Inglis, the all-rounder is in the mix to earn a recall at number six, on the assumption that Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green shifts to number five.

Smith noted a final decision on the lineup might come before the day ends, but equally it could be delayed until the Thursday. Play begins at the Gabba at two in the afternoon (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.