Australia Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Test Lineup, Possibility Still Open for Cummins’ Return

Australia's starting XI for the upcoming Brisbane Test is still a mystery under 24 hours out from the match start in Brisbane, with a further inspection of the wicket required before the hosts finalize a team that may yet feature the fast bowler.

Acting Captain Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Recall

Acting skipper Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on Wednesday but was keeping quiet about the exact make-up of the lineup. Yet, he left the door open a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared pretty good to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain stated. “Obviously match intensity differs, but he’s coming along well, he understands his fitness.”

11th-Hour Draft Still a Possibility

The fast bowler was originally omitted in Australia’s extended squad for the Brisbane Test, but nonetheless went to Brisbane to work on his fitness with the team. Smith indicated he was progressing well and may be called up at the 11th hour.

“It's a waiting game but as I mentioned, he’s close,” the captain continued. “He has completed all the right things the recent period and we’ll see after three o’clock when we assess that surface whether he’s in contention or not.”

Team Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Plays

A comeback for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a short time back, would lead to recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith did not assure Lyon’s place in the team when asked about the off-spinner’s selection.

“Not sure,” he responded. “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 history, he’s a world-class spinner. We will consider the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Selection

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 touted to open the batting again after his century in the first Test.

“Many options are on the table,” Smith said. “We’ll wait and see what the wicket is like and from there we’ll finalize a playing XI.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a positive player,” Smith said. “Did really well on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He faces quicks exceptionally. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Decision Timeline

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to be selected at No 6, on the likelihood that Travis Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder shifts to number five.

Smith noted a official announcement on the lineup might come later on Wednesday, but it might also be postponed until the morning of the Test. Play starts at the Gabba at 1400 local (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.