Australia Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Test Lineup, Possibility Wide Ajar for Cummins’ Return

The starting XI for the next Test match is yet to be decided under 24 hours out from the opening delivery in Brisbane, with a final assessment of the wicket needed before the Australian selectors finalize a team that might feature Pat Cummins.

Stand-in Captain Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Return

Acting skipper Steve Smith fronted an journalists on the eve of the Test but was unable to reveal the precise composition of the lineup. Nonetheless, he left the door open a late inclusion for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back issue.

“He seems very sharp to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” Smith remarked. “Naturally match intensity differs, but he’s coming along well, he is aware of his condition.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Remains a Live Option

The pace spearhead was originally omitted in Australia’s 15-man squad for the Brisbane Test, but nonetheless went to Brisbane to work on his fitness with the group. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and could yet be drafted in at the final moment.

“The decision is pending but like I said, he’s not far away,” the captain noted. “He has completed everything really well the past few days and we’ll see after three o’clock when we inspect that surface whether he’s an option or not.”

Team Conundrums Loom if He Plays

A return to the side for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would result in 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 asked about the spinner's selection.

“Uncertain,” he said. “We’ll look at the wicket as I said and make a decision from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the previous matches, he’s a quality bowler. We will consider the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batters Awaiting Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to find out whether he has earned a recall. The player is the prime option to be included in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander expected to take the opening spot again after his heroics in the first Test.

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

“[Inglis] is clearly a very aggressive batsman,” Smith said. “Impressed on his debut in the subcontinent, he’s been in really good form... He plays fast bowling very well. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Call Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to earn a recall at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and Cam Green is promoted to No 5.

Smith noted a official announcement on the XI could be made this afternoon, but equally it could be delayed until the day of the match. Play gets under way at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.