The Australian Team Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test XI, Possibility Wide Ajar for Pat Cummins' Comeback

Australia's playing eleven for the next Test match is still a mystery less than a day out from the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a further inspection of the wicket required before the Australian selectors announce a squad that may yet contain their captain.

Stand-in Captain Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith addressed an journalists on the eve of the Test but was unable to reveal the exact make-up of the XI. However, he kept the possibility alive a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back injury.

“He’s looked quite impressive to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain said. “Naturally games are different intensity, but he’s coming along well, he is aware of his condition.”

Late Inclusion Still a Possibility

The fast bowler was originally omitted in Australia’s 15-man squad for the second match, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to continue his recovery with the rest of the squad. Smith said he was progressing well and might still be drafted in at the final moment.

“We’ll wait and see but like I said, he’s not far away,” Smith added. “He’s done his work the recent period and we’ll see later today when we assess that surface whether he’s an option or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if He Returns

A comeback for Cummins, which was in doubt just a recently, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith refused to guarantee Lyon’s place in the team when pressed about the spinner's inclusion.

“Not sure,” he said. “We need to examine the pitch as I said and determine our strategy from there. This is a ground Nathan has performed brilliantly in the history, he’s a quality bowler. We will consider the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to find out whether he has earned a recall. The player is the prime option to be included in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander touted to take the opening spot again after his heroics in Perth.

“Several scenarios are on the table,” Smith explained. “We’ll wait and see what the pitch is like and from there we’ll decide on a final team.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a very aggressive player,” Smith added. “Performed excellently on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in great nick... He plays fast bowling exceptionally. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Final Decision Timeline

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is in the mix to earn a recall at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and Cam Green moves up to number five.

Smith said a final decision on the XI could be made this afternoon, but alternatively, it may wait until the Thursday. Play begins at the Gabba at 1400 local (3pm AEDT) on tomorrow.