The Australian Team Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Test Lineup, Possibility Wide Ajar for Cummins’ Comeback

The starting XI for the second Ashes Test remains unknown just hours before the first ball in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the wicket necessary before the hosts name a side that may yet contain their captain.

Stand-in Captain Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on the eve of the Test but was not disclosing the exact make-up of the team. Nonetheless, he kept the possibility alive a shock return for Cummins, who was ruled out of the series opener due to a back injury.

“He seems pretty good to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” Smith stated. “Obviously the game is different, but he’s coming along well, he is aware of his condition.”

11th-Hour Draft Remains a Live Option

The quick was originally omitted in Australia’s 15-man squad for the Brisbane Test, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and may be called up at the last minute.

“We’ll wait and see but like I said, he’s near,” Smith noted. “He’s done his work the past few days and we’ll see this afternoon when we inspect that surface whether he’s an option or not.”

Selection Conundrums Ahead if Cummins Plays

A recall for Cummins, which was in doubt just a short time back, would lead to recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith refused to guarantee Lyon’s place in the team when asked about the off-spinner’s selection.

“Uncertain,” he said. “We need to examine the surface as I said and make a decision from there. This is a ground Nathan has excelled in the past, he’s a quality bowler. We will consider the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to wait to learn whether he has been selected. The player is the prime option to be included in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander expected to open the batting again after his heroics in the first Test.

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

“[Inglis] is obviously a very aggressive batsman,” Smith added. “Performed excellently on his first Test in the subcontinent, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks very well. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Final Decision Timeline

Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is under consideration to be selected at number six, on the likelihood that Travis Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder is promoted to No 5.

Smith said a definite call on the team could be made before the day ends, but it might also be postponed until the Thursday. Play starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on Thursday.