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

Australia's starting XI for the second Ashes Test is still a mystery less than a day out from the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a further inspection of the playing surface needed before the hosts name a side that could still feature their captain.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Return

Stand-in captain Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the lineup. Yet, he did not rule out a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared quite impressive to me, the way he’s performed in training,” Smith remarked. “Of course match intensity differs, but he’s tracking really nicely, he knows his body well.”

Late Inclusion Remains a Possibility

The quick was originally omitted in Australia’s larger group for the second match, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to work on his fitness with the team. Smith confirmed he was improving nicely and could yet be included at the last minute.

“The decision is pending but as stated, he’s not far away,” the captain continued. “He’s done everything really well the past few days and we’ll see this afternoon when we look at that wicket whether he’s an option or not.”

Selection Conundrums Ahead if He Returns

A comeback for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a recently, would lead to Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon losing their place.

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

“Uncertain,” he replied. “We’ll look at the pitch as I said and sum things up from there. This is a ground Nathan has performed brilliantly in the previous matches, he’s a world-class spinner. We will consider the options and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to see whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the prime option to enter the lineup in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head expected to open the batting again after his heroics in Perth.

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

“[Inglis] is clearly a pretty attacking batsman,” Smith said. “Performed excellently on his first Test in the subcontinent, he’s been in really good form... He handles pace very well. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Last-Minute Call Pending

Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to return to the side at number six, on the assumption that Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder shifts to No 5.

Smith noted a definite call on the XI is possible this afternoon, but equally it could be delayed until the morning of the Test. The match gets under way at the Gabba at 2pm local time (1500 AEDT) on Thursday.