The Australian Team Stays Cagey on Second Test XI, Possibility Still Ajar for Pat Cummins' Comeback

The playing eleven for the second Ashes Test is still a mystery under 24 hours before the match start in Brisbane, with a further inspection of the playing surface necessary before the Australian selectors name a side that may yet feature their captain.

Acting Captain Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith fronted an journalists on the eve of the Test but was not disclosing the exact make-up of the XI. Yet, he left the door open a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was ruled out of the series opener due to a back complaint.

“He seems quite impressive to me, the way he’s performed in training,” Smith stated. “Obviously games are different intensity, but he’s tracking really nicely, he knows his body well.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Live Option

The quick was initially left out in Australia’s 15-man squad for the next encounter, but still travelled to the Gabba to work on his fitness with the group. Smith confirmed he was on the right track and might still be called up at the last minute.

“It's a waiting game but as I mentioned, he’s close,” the captain continued. “He’s done his work the past few days and we’ll see after three o’clock when we inspect that pitch whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Conundrums Loom if Cummins Returns

A comeback for Cummins, which was in doubt just a recently, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon losing their place.

Smith did not assure Lyon’s place in the team when pressed about the off-spinner’s inclusion.

“Uncertain,” he said. “We will assess the wicket as I said and determine our strategy from there. Here’s a place Nathan has performed brilliantly in the history, he’s a top performer. We’ll weigh up the choices and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Recall

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to wait to learn whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the frontrunner to come into the XI in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander expected to take the opening spot again after his brilliant performance in Perth.

“A heap of things are under consideration,” Smith explained. “The decision is pending what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a final team.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a very aggressive player,” Smith added. “Did really well on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in great nick... He handles pace very well. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Decision Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to earn a recall at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green is promoted to No 5.

Smith noted a official announcement on the lineup might come this afternoon, but it might also be postponed until the morning of the Test. The match gets under way at the Gabba at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.