The Australian Team Stays Cagey on Second Test XI, Possibility Wide Open for Pat Cummins' Return

The playing eleven for the second Ashes Test is yet to be decided under 24 hours before the first ball in Brisbane, with a further inspection of the Gabba pitch required before the team management name a side that might contain their captain.

Acting Captain Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith spoke to an journalists on Wednesday but was not disclosing the final selection of the XI. Nonetheless, he kept the possibility alive a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back injury.

“He’s looked quite impressive to me, the way he’s performed in training,” Smith said. “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 fast bowler was initially left out in Australia’s larger group for the Brisbane Test, but came along to the Gabba to continue his recovery with the group. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and may be included at the last minute.

“The decision is pending but as I mentioned, he’s not far away,” Smith added. “His rehabilitation has been his work the last little bit and we’ll see later today when we look at that wicket whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Conundrums Ahead if He Plays

A recall for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a recently, would lead to recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith would not confirm Lyon’s place in the team when asked about the spinner's selection.

“Undecided,” he responded. “We need to examine the wicket as I said and make a decision from there. This is a ground Nathan has excelled in the previous matches, he’s a world-class spinner. We must evaluate the choices and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to find out whether he has been selected. The batter is the frontrunner to come into the XI in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to take the opening spot again after his century in Perth.

“Many options are being discussed,” Smith explained. “It's a matter of waiting what the wicket is like and from there we’ll decide on a playing XI.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a very aggressive batsman,” Smith said. “Impressed on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He plays fast bowling really nicely. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Call Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is in contention to earn a recall at number six, on the likelihood that Travis Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder moves up to number five.

Smith indicated a definite call on the lineup might come later on Wednesday, but alternatively, it may wait until the day of the match. The Test gets under way at the Gabba at two in the afternoon (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.