The Australian Team Stays Cagey on Second Test Lineup, Door Still Ajar for Cummins’ Comeback

Australia's lineup for the next Test match remains unknown less than a day before the opening delivery in Brisbane, with a closer look of the playing surface needed before the team management finalize a team that may yet contain their captain.

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

Acting skipper Steve Smith addressed an journalists on Wednesday but was keeping quiet about the final selection of the team. However, he did not rule out a surprise recall for Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back injury.

“He has appeared quite impressive to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” Smith remarked. “Of course match intensity differs, but he’s tracking really nicely, he understands his fitness.”

Late Inclusion Remains a Possibility

The fast bowler was initially left out in Australia’s 15-man squad for the Brisbane Test, but came along to Brisbane to rehabilitate with the rest of the squad. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and might still be included at the last minute.

“We’ll wait and see but like I said, he’s close,” the captain continued. “He has completed all the right things the past few days and we’ll see later today when we inspect that pitch whether he’s a possibility or not.”

Selection Conundrums Ahead if Cummins Plays

A return to the side for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would result in Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon losing their place.

Smith would not confirm Lyon’s place in the team when asked about the off-spinner’s selection.

“Uncertain,” he replied. “We will assess the surface as I said and make a decision from there. This is a ground Nathan has excelled in the previous matches, he’s a world-class spinner. We will consider the options and see how we go.”

Batsmen Awaiting Recall

Josh Inglis will also have to see whether he has earned a recall. The player is the prime option to enter the lineup in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head expected to open the batting again after his brilliant performance in Perth.

“Several scenarios are under consideration,” Smith said. “We’ll wait and see what the pitch is like and from there we’ll finalize a playing XI.”

“[Inglis] is clearly a very aggressive player,” Smith added. “Impressed on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He handles pace exceptionally. So if he gets his opportunity I’m sure he’ll excel for us.”

Last-Minute Decision Pending

In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is in contention to earn a recall at number six, on the expectation that Head partners as opener alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder moves up to No 5.

Smith said a definite call on the team might come later on Wednesday, but equally it could be delayed until the day of the match. The Test starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at two in the afternoon (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.