Australia Remains Cagey on Second Ashes Test Lineup, Possibility Wide Ajar for Cummins’ Comeback

Australia's playing eleven for the next Test match is yet to be decided less than a day out from the first ball in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the playing surface necessary before the team management finalize a squad that might contain Pat Cummins.

Acting Skipper Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith fronted an journalists on the eve of the Test but was not disclosing the exact make-up of the lineup. Nonetheless, he did not rule out a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared pretty good to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” Smith said. “Obviously games are different intensity, but he’s progressing very well, he is aware of his condition.”

Late Inclusion Still a Possibility

The fast bowler was initially left out in Australia’s larger group for the Brisbane Test, but still travelled to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith indicated he was progressing well and could yet be called up at the last minute.

“It's a waiting game but as I mentioned, he’s near,” Smith added. “His rehabilitation has been his work the past few days and we’ll see this afternoon when we look at that pitch whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Conundrums Ahead if He Plays

A return to the side for Cummins, which was in doubt just a short time back, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon being omitted.

Smith did not assure Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the spinner's inclusion.

“Not sure,” he replied. “We need to examine the pitch as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has performed brilliantly in the history, he’s a quality bowler. We will consider the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to find out whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the frontrunner to enter the lineup in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to open the batting again after his century in the first Test.

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

“[Inglis] is obviously a very aggressive player,” Smith added. “Did really well on his debut in the subcontinent, he’s been in really good form... He handles pace really nicely. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”

Final Call Pending

In addition to Inglis, the all-rounder is under consideration to be selected at No 6, on the expectation that Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green shifts to No 5.

Smith said a official announcement on the lineup is possible before the day ends, but it might also be postponed until the morning of the Test. Play begins at the Gabba at two in the afternoon (1500 AEDT) on Thursday.