The Australian Team Remains Cagey on Second Test Lineup, Possibility Wide Open for Cummins’ Return

Australia's lineup for the upcoming Brisbane Test is yet to be decided under 24 hours before the opening delivery in Brisbane, with a closer look of the Gabba pitch necessary before the hosts name a team that could still feature their captain.

Acting Skipper Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Return

Acting skipper Steve Smith spoke to an expectant media on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the precise composition of the XI. However, he kept the possibility alive a shock return for Cummins, who was ruled out of the first Test due to a back injury.

“He’s looked very sharp to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain stated. “Of course match intensity differs, but he’s tracking really nicely, he is aware of his condition.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Remains a Live Option

The pace spearhead was originally omitted in Australia’s extended squad for the Brisbane Test, but came along to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the group. Smith said he was on the right track and may be included at the 11th hour.

“It's a waiting game but as stated, he’s close,” the captain noted. “He’s done everything really well the recent period and we’ll see later today when we assess that surface whether he’s an option or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if He Returns

A recall for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a short time back, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon being omitted.

Smith did not assure Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the spinner's inclusion.

“Uncertain,” he replied. “We’ll look at the surface as I said and make a decision from there. Here’s a place Nathan has performed brilliantly in the previous matches, he’s a quality bowler. We’ll weigh up the options and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to wait to learn whether he has earned a recall. The player is the prime option to enter the lineup in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to take the opening spot again after his brilliant performance in Perth.

“Several scenarios are on the table,” Smith explained. “It's a matter of waiting what the wicket is like and from there we’ll decide on a playing XI.”

“[Inglis] is obviously a positive batsman,” Smith said. “Did really well on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks very well. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”

Final Decision Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is in the mix to return to the side at No 6, on the assumption that Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder is promoted to No 5.

Smith said a final decision on the lineup is possible later on Wednesday, but it might also be postponed until the day of the match. The match gets under way at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 1400 local (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.