The Australian Team Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test XI, Door Still Open for Pat Cummins' Return

Australia's starting XI for the upcoming Brisbane Test is yet to be decided less than a day before the match start in Brisbane, with a closer look of the playing surface necessary before the Australian selectors announce a team that may yet feature the fast bowler.

Stand-in Skipper Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Return

Vice-captain Steve Smith fronted an expectant media on Wednesday but was keeping quiet about the precise composition of the XI. Nonetheless, he did not rule out a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back issue.

“He has appeared quite impressive to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” the stand-in captain stated. “Obviously match intensity differs, but he’s progressing very well, he knows his body well.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Still a Live Option

The quick was originally omitted in Australia’s extended squad for the Brisbane Test, but came along to Brisbane to work on his fitness with the group. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and could yet be included at the final moment.

“We’ll wait and see but as I mentioned, he’s not far away,” Smith added. “He’s done everything really well the recent period and we’ll see after three o’clock when we look at that wicket whether he’s an option or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Loom if Cummins Returns

A return to the side for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a recently, would result in Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon losing their place.

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

“Undecided,” he said. “We will assess the wicket as I said and determine our strategy from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the previous matches, he’s a quality bowler. We must evaluate the options and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to find out whether he has made the team. The batter is the prime option to come into the XI in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to open the batting again after his century in the first Test.

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

“[Inglis] is obviously a very aggressive batsman,” Smith added. “Impressed on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He handles pace very well. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Last-Minute Decision Timeline

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to be selected at number six, on the likelihood that Head opens the batting alongside the other opener, and Cam Green moves up to No 5.

Smith indicated a final decision on the lineup could be made before the day ends, but equally it could be delayed until the day of the match. The Test starts at the Gabba at 2pm local time (3pm AEDT) on tomorrow.