Australia Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test XI, Possibility Still Ajar for Pat Cummins' Comeback

Australia's starting XI for the second Ashes Test remains unknown under 24 hours before the match start in Brisbane, with a further inspection of the Gabba pitch required before the hosts name a team that may yet include the fast bowler.

Acting Captain Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Recall

Stand-in captain Steve Smith addressed an waiting press on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the final selection of the XI. However, he left the door open a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back complaint.

“He has appeared pretty good to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” Smith remarked. “Of course the game is different, but he’s coming along well, he knows his body well.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Remains a Live Option

The pace spearhead was initially left out in Australia’s extended squad for the second match, but still travelled to the Gabba to rehabilitate with the team. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and could yet be included at the last minute.

“We’ll wait and see but as I mentioned, he’s near,” Smith added. “He’s done all the right things the past few days and we’ll see this afternoon when we assess that pitch whether he’s an option or not.”

Team Conundrums Loom if He Plays

A recall for Cummins, which was in doubt just a short time back, would lead to recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon losing their place.

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

“Undecided,” he responded. “We’ll look at the wicket as I said and determine our strategy from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the history, he’s a world-class spinner. We will consider the options and see how we go.”

Batters In Contention for Recall

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to see whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the leading candidate to be included in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to take the opening spot again after his heroics in the first Test.

“A heap of things are being discussed,” Smith commented. “The decision is pending what the pitch is like and from there we’ll decide on a playing XI.”

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

Final Decision Timeline

Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is in contention to be selected at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder shifts to number five.

Smith noted a official announcement on the team could be made later on Wednesday, but it might also be postponed until the morning of the Test. Play gets under way at the Gabba at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on Thursday.