Australia Remains Cagey on Second Test Lineup, Door Still Open for Pat Cummins' Comeback

Australia's playing eleven for the second Ashes Test remains unknown under 24 hours out from the opening delivery in Brisbane, with a final assessment of the Gabba pitch required before the hosts announce a squad that might include Pat Cummins.

Stand-in Captain Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Return

Acting skipper Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on the eve of the Test but was unable to reveal the final selection of the XI. However, he did not rule out a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was ruled out of the first Test due to a back complaint.

“He has appeared quite impressive to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” the stand-in captain remarked. “Obviously games are different intensity, but he’s tracking really nicely, he knows his body well.”

11th-Hour Draft Remains a Live Option

The fast bowler was originally omitted in Australia’s 15-man squad for the next encounter, but nonetheless went to Brisbane to work on his fitness with the rest of the squad. Smith indicated he was progressing well and might still be called up at the 11th hour.

“It's a waiting game but as stated, he’s close,” Smith continued. “He has completed everything really well the recent period and we’ll see later today when we assess that wicket whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Conundrums Ahead if Cummins Plays

A comeback for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a short time back, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon losing their place.

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

“Uncertain,” he replied. “We will assess the wicket as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has done really well in the previous matches, he’s a top performer. We will consider the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to see whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the frontrunner to be included in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head touted to take the opening spot again after his century in Perth.

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

“[Inglis] is obviously a pretty attacking batsman,” Smith said. “Performed excellently on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in great nick... He faces quicks really nicely. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”

Last-Minute Call Timeline

Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is in the mix to be selected at No 6, on the likelihood that Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green shifts to number five.

Smith indicated a definite call on the lineup is possible this afternoon, but equally it could be delayed until the day of the match. Play begins at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.