Australia Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test XI, Possibility Wide Ajar for Pat Cummins' Return

The starting XI for the next Test match is yet to be decided just hours before the first ball in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the Gabba pitch required before the team management finalize a side that might contain their captain.

Acting Captain Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Return

Stand-in captain Steve Smith addressed an expectant media on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the precise composition of the lineup. Nonetheless, he kept the possibility alive a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was ruled out of the series opener due to a back issue.

“He seems pretty good to me, the way he’s performed in training,” Smith said. “Obviously games are different intensity, but he’s progressing very well, he understands his fitness.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Live Option

The pace spearhead was initially left out in Australia’s 15-man squad for the second match, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to rehabilitate with the group. Smith indicated he was progressing well and may be drafted in at the final moment.

“We’ll wait and see but as stated, he’s not far away,” the captain noted. “He’s done his work the recent period and we’ll see after three o’clock when we assess that pitch whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Returns

A comeback for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a recently, 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 asked about the off-spinner’s selection.

“Uncertain,” he said. “We need to examine the wicket as I said and make a decision from there. This is a ground Nathan has done really well in the past, he’s a quality bowler. We will consider the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to find out whether he has been selected. The player is the leading candidate to enter the lineup in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head touted to take the opening spot again after his heroics in the first Test.

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

“[Inglis] is clearly a positive batsman,” Smith added. “Performed excellently on his first Test in the subcontinent, he’s been in excellent touch... He handles pace really nicely. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”

Last-Minute Decision Timeline

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to be selected at No 6, on the assumption that Travis Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green is promoted to No 5.

Smith said a official announcement on the XI is possible before the day ends, but equally it could be delayed until the Thursday. The match begins at the Gabba at 2pm local time (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.