The Australian Team Remains Cagey on Second Test Lineup, Door Still Ajar for Pat Cummins' Comeback
Australia's playing eleven for the upcoming Brisbane Test is still a mystery under 24 hours out from the match start in the Gabba, with a further inspection of the playing surface required before the team management announce a squad that may yet contain Pat Cummins.
Acting Skipper Steve Smith Leaves Door Open for Shock Return
Acting skipper Steve Smith fronted an expectant media on Wednesday but was not disclosing the precise composition of the lineup. Yet, he did not rule out a surprise recall for Cummins, who was ruled out of the series opener due to a back injury.
“He has appeared quite impressive to me, the way he’s been bowling in practice,” the stand-in captain said. “Of course games are different intensity, but he’s tracking really nicely, he is aware of his condition.”
11th-Hour Inclusion Remains a Possibility
The pace spearhead was initially left out in Australia’s 15-man squad for the Brisbane Test, but came along to the Gabba to continue his recovery with the team. Smith confirmed he was improving nicely and might still be included at the final moment.
“The decision is pending but as stated, he’s close,” the captain added. “He has completed all the right things the recent period and we’ll see after three o’clock when we assess that pitch whether he’s an option or not.”
Team Dilemmas Ahead if He Returns
A return to the side for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a few days ago, would mean recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon losing their place.
Smith refused to guarantee Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the spinner's inclusion.
“Undecided,” he responded. “We need to examine the wicket as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has done really well in the past, he’s a quality bowler. We will consider the options and see how we go.”
Batters Awaiting Selection
The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to wait to learn whether he has earned a recall. The player is the leading candidate to come into the XI in place of the unfit Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander touted to take the opening spot again after his brilliant performance in the first Test.
“Many options are being discussed,” Smith explained. “The decision is pending what the pitch is like and from there we’ll determine a lineup.”
“[Inglis] is clearly a pretty attacking batsman,” Smith added. “Impressed on his debut in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He plays fast bowling exceptionally. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll perform admirably for us.”
Last-Minute Decision Pending
Along with Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to earn a recall at number six, on the assumption that Travis Head opens the batting alongside the other opener, and the all-rounder shifts to number five.
Smith indicated a definite call on the team is possible before the day ends, but equally it could be delayed until the Thursday. The match gets under way at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at two in the afternoon (3pm AEDT) on tomorrow.