The Australian Team Stays Cagey on Second Test Lineup, Door Still Open for Pat Cummins' Return

The lineup for the next Test match remains unknown just hours out from the first ball in the Gabba, with a further inspection of the wicket necessary before the team management finalize a squad that could still contain Pat Cummins.

Stand-in Captain Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Recall

Stand-in captain Steve Smith fronted an expectant media on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the final selection of the lineup. Nonetheless, he did not rule out a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back complaint.

“He’s looked very sharp to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain said. “Naturally games are different intensity, but he’s progressing very well, he is aware of his condition.”

Late Draft Remains a Live Option

The pace spearhead was not initially selected in Australia’s larger group for the Brisbane Test, but still travelled to Brisbane to continue his recovery with the team. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and may be called up at the 11th hour.

“It's a waiting game but as I mentioned, he’s close,” Smith added. “His rehabilitation has been his work the recent period and we’ll see after three o’clock when we inspect that surface whether he’s in contention or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Plays

A comeback for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon losing their place.

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

“Uncertain,” he responded. “We need to examine the wicket as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the past, he’s a world-class spinner. We’ll weigh up the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to see whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the prime option to come into the XI in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head expected to take the opening spot again after his century in Perth.

“A heap of things are on the table,” Smith commented. “It's a matter of waiting what the wicket is like and from there we’ll decide on a final team.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a pretty attacking batsman,” Smith said. “Impressed on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He plays fast bowling exceptionally. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Last-Minute Decision Timeline

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

Smith said a official announcement on the lineup could be made later on Wednesday, but alternatively, it may wait until the day of the match. The match starts at the Gabba at two in the afternoon (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.