The Australian Team Stays Tight-Lipped on Second Test XI, Possibility Still Open for Cummins’ Comeback

Australia's lineup for the next Test match is yet to be decided less than a day out from the match start in Brisbane, with a closer look of the wicket necessary before the Australian selectors announce a squad that might contain their captain.

Stand-in Skipper Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Recall

Vice-captain Steve Smith spoke to an waiting press on the eve of the Test but was not disclosing the precise composition of the team. Nonetheless, he left the door open a late inclusion for Cummins, who was forced to miss the first Test due to a back injury.

“He seems pretty good to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” Smith remarked. “Of course games are different intensity, but he’s coming along well, he knows his body well.”

11th-Hour Inclusion Remains a Live Option

The fast bowler was originally omitted in Australia’s larger group for the next encounter, but came along to Brisbane to work on his fitness with the group. Smith confirmed he was on the right track and could yet be drafted in at the final moment.

“It's a waiting game but as I mentioned, he’s close,” Smith noted. “He has completed his work the recent period and we’ll see later today when we inspect that wicket whether he’s an option or not.”

Team Dilemmas Loom if He Returns

A comeback for Cummins, which was in doubt just a few days ago, 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 off-spinner’s inclusion.

“Uncertain,” he responded. “We need to examine the pitch as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has performed brilliantly in the past, he’s a top performer. We will consider the options and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Selection

The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to see whether he has been selected. The batter is the prime option to come into the XI in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head expected to open the batting again after his brilliant performance in the first Test.

“Several scenarios are being discussed,” Smith commented. “It's a matter of waiting what the wicket is like and from there we’ll determine a final team.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a positive batsman,” Smith added. “Did really well on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in great nick... He plays fast bowling really nicely. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Last-Minute Decision Pending

Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is in the mix to earn a recall at No 6, on the expectation that Travis Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder is promoted to number five.

Smith indicated a final decision on the team is possible this afternoon, but it might also be postponed until the morning of the Test. Play starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 1400 local (3pm AEDT) on tomorrow.