Australia Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Test XI, Door Still Open for Cummins’ Return

Australia's starting XI for the next Test match is still a mystery just hours out from the opening delivery in Brisbane, with a further inspection of the playing surface needed before the team management finalize a team that could still include their captain.

Stand-in Skipper Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Recall

Acting skipper Steve Smith addressed an expectant media on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the precise composition of the lineup. However, he did not rule out a surprise recall for Pat Cummins, who was ruled out of the first Test due to a back injury.

“He seems very sharp to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain said. “Obviously games are different intensity, but he’s progressing very well, he understands his fitness.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Still a Live Option

The quick was initially left out in Australia’s larger group for the Brisbane Test, but nonetheless went to the Gabba to continue his recovery with the group. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and might still be drafted in at the final moment.

“We’ll wait and see but as I mentioned, he’s not far away,” Smith noted. “His rehabilitation has been all the right things the recent period and we’ll see after three o’clock when we look at that surface whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Conundrums Loom if He Returns

A return to the side for Cummins, which was in doubt just a few days ago, would lead to Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon missing out.

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

“Undecided,” he responded. “We’ll look at the pitch as I said and make a decision from there. This is a ground Nathan has excelled in the past, he’s a top performer. We will consider the choices and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Recall

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to find out whether he has made the team. The batter is the leading candidate to enter the lineup in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head likely to open the batting again after his brilliant performance in Perth.

“Several scenarios are under consideration,” Smith commented. “The decision is pending what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a final team.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a very aggressive player,” Smith said. “Performed excellently on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks exceptionally. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Decision Timeline

Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is in the mix to return to the side at number six, on the assumption that Travis Head opens the batting alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder moves up to number five.

Smith indicated a official announcement on the XI is possible later on Wednesday, but equally it could be delayed until the day of the match. The Test begins at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.