The Australian Team Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test Lineup, Door Still Ajar for Pat Cummins' Comeback

The starting XI for the upcoming Brisbane Test is still a mystery just hours before the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a further inspection of the playing surface required before the Australian selectors announce a squad that may yet feature Pat Cummins.

Acting Captain Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Return

Acting skipper Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the precise composition of the team. Yet, he left the door open a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was ruled out of the series opener due to a back issue.

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

Late Inclusion Still a Live Option

The pace spearhead was originally omitted in Australia’s extended squad for the second match, but came along to the Gabba to continue his recovery with the group. Smith confirmed he was improving nicely and might still be drafted in at the last minute.

“It's a waiting game but as stated, he’s close,” the captain noted. “He’s done everything really well the past few days and we’ll see this afternoon when we assess that surface whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Loom if He Returns

A comeback for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a recently, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith would not confirm Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the off-spinner’s selection.

“Uncertain,” he said. “We’ll look at the surface as I said and determine our strategy from there. This is a ground Nathan has excelled in the past, he’s a quality bowler. We will consider the options and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to find out whether he has made the team. 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 heroics in Perth.

“Many options are being discussed,” Smith said. “We’ll wait and see what the pitch is like and from there we’ll decide on a final team.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a positive player,” Smith added. “Did really well on his debut in the subcontinent, he’s been in great nick... He plays fast bowling exceptionally. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”

Last-Minute Decision Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is in the mix to be selected at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and Cam Green is promoted to number five.

Smith said a official announcement on the team is possible later on Wednesday, but equally it could be delayed until the morning of the Test. Play gets under way at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at two in the afternoon (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.