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

Australia's starting XI for the next Test match is yet to be decided just hours before the opening delivery in the Gabba, with a final assessment of the wicket necessary before the hosts name a side that might contain Pat Cummins.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Hints at Possibility for Shock Return

Acting skipper Steve Smith fronted an journalists on Wednesday but was keeping quiet about the exact make-up of the team. Yet, he left the door open a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the series opener due to a back injury.

“He’s looked very sharp to me, the way he’s performed in training,” the stand-in captain stated. “Naturally games are different intensity, but he’s tracking really nicely, he is aware of his condition.”

Late Draft Still a Possibility

The pace spearhead was not initially selected in Australia’s extended squad for the next encounter, but nonetheless went to Brisbane to work on his fitness with the group. Smith confirmed he was progressing well and may be included at the 11th hour.

“It's a waiting game but as stated, he’s near,” Smith added. “He’s done his work the last little bit and we’ll see this afternoon when we look at that pitch whether he’s an option or not.”

Team Dilemmas Loom if He Plays

A recall for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a short time back, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith would not confirm Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the off-spinner’s selection.

“Uncertain,” 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 previous matches, he’s a quality bowler. We must evaluate the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to wait to learn whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the frontrunner to be included in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander expected to open the batting again after his heroics in the first Test.

“Many options are on the table,” Smith commented. “The decision is pending what the pitch is like and from there we’ll decide on a lineup.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a positive batsman,” Smith added. “Impressed on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He handles pace very well. 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 be selected at No 6, on the likelihood that Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green shifts to No 5.

Smith indicated a official announcement on the team is possible this afternoon, but alternatively, it may wait until the morning of the Test. Play begins at the Gabba at two in the afternoon (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.