The Australian Team Stays Cagey on Second Test XI, Possibility Still Ajar for Pat Cummins' Return

Australia's lineup for the next Test match is still a mystery under 24 hours out from the first ball in Brisbane, with a closer look of the playing surface necessary before the Australian selectors announce a squad that might contain the fast bowler.

Acting Skipper Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Recall

Stand-in captain Steve Smith spoke to an waiting press on the eve of the Test but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the XI. Nonetheless, he left the door open a shock return for Cummins, who was forced to miss the series opener due to a back issue.

“He seems pretty good to me, the way he’s bowled in the nets,” the stand-in captain remarked. “Obviously the game is different, but he’s progressing very well, he knows his body well.”

Late Draft Remains a Live Option

The fast bowler was originally omitted in Australia’s larger group for the second match, but came along to the Gabba to rehabilitate with the group. Smith indicated he was progressing well and might still be drafted in at the last minute.

“It's a waiting game but as stated, he’s not far away,” the captain noted. “He has completed everything really well the past few days and we’ll see this afternoon when we assess that surface whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Returns

A return to the side for Cummins, which seemed improbable just a few days ago, would mean Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even spin veteran Nathan Lyon missing out.

Smith refused to guarantee Lyon’s place in the team when asked about the spinner's selection.

“Uncertain,” he responded. “We will assess 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 top performer. We’ll weigh up the alternatives and see how we go.”

Batsmen In Contention for Selection

Josh Inglis will also have to wait to learn whether he has been selected. The batter is the frontrunner to be included in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander expected to take the opening spot again after his brilliant performance in the first Test.

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

“[Inglis] is clearly a very aggressive batsman,” Smith added. “Performed excellently on his debut in the subcontinent, he’s been in great nick... He plays fast bowling really nicely. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Final Call Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is in the mix to be selected at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head opens the batting alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder moves up to No 5.

Smith noted a definite call on the team might come later on Wednesday, but alternatively, it may wait until the morning of the Test. The match starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 1400 local (1500 AEDT) on Thursday.