The Australian Team Stays Cagey on Second Ashes Test XI, Possibility Wide Open for Pat Cummins' Return

Australia's playing eleven for the second Ashes Test is yet to be decided just hours before the first ball in Brisbane, with a closer look of the Gabba pitch required before the Australian selectors finalize a side that might contain Pat Cummins.

Acting Skipper Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith addressed an waiting press on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the final selection of the XI. However, he kept the possibility alive a surprise recall for Cummins, who was unavailable for the series opener due to a back injury.

“He’s looked quite impressive to me, the way he’s performed in training,” Smith said. “Naturally the game is different, but he’s progressing very well, he understands his fitness.”

Late Inclusion Still a Possibility

The quick was not initially selected in Australia’s extended squad for the next encounter, but still travelled to the Gabba to continue his recovery with the group. Smith confirmed he was progressing well and may be called up at the final moment.

“It's a waiting game but as stated, he’s not far away,” Smith continued. “He’s done everything really well the last little bit and we’ll see this afternoon when we look at that pitch whether he’s an option or not.”

Selection Conundrums Loom if Cummins Returns

A return to the side for Cummins, which was in doubt just a few days ago, would mean recent Test player 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 spinner's selection.

“Not sure,” he replied. “We’ll look at 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 top performer. We must evaluate the options and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to wait to learn whether he has made the team. The player is the prime option to come into the XI in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head likely to open the batting again after his heroics in Perth.

“Many options are on the table,” Smith commented. “The decision is pending what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a final team.”

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

Last-Minute Call Pending

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is in contention to return to the side at No 6, on the expectation that Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and Cam Green moves up to No 5.

Smith indicated a final decision on the lineup might come this afternoon, but alternatively, it may wait until the Thursday. The Test starts at the Gabba at 2pm local time (1500 AEDT) on Thursday.