The Australian Team Remains Tight-Lipped on Second Ashes Test Lineup, Possibility Still Open for Cummins’ Return
Australia's lineup for the upcoming Brisbane Test remains unknown just hours out from the opening delivery in Brisbane, with a closer look of the Gabba pitch needed before the Australian selectors name a side that might include their captain.
Acting Skipper Smith Hints at Possibility for Surprise Recall
Acting skipper Steve Smith fronted an expectant media on Wednesday but was unable to reveal the exact make-up of the lineup. However, he left the door open a shock return for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable for the first Test due to a back issue.
“He’s looked quite impressive to me, the way he’s performed in training,” Smith said. “Obviously match intensity differs, but he’s tracking really nicely, he understands his fitness.”
Late Draft Remains a Possibility
The quick was not initially selected in Australia’s extended squad for the Brisbane Test, but nonetheless went to Brisbane to continue his recovery with the team. Smith said he was progressing well and might still be included at the last minute.
“The decision is pending but like I said, he’s near,” the captain continued. “He has completed his work the recent period and we’ll see later today when we inspect that wicket whether he’s a possibility or not.”
Selection Conundrums Loom if He Plays
A return to the side for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a short time back, would lead to Perth debutant Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon being omitted.
Smith would not confirm Lyon’s place in the team when asked about the spinner's selection.
“Not sure,” he responded. “We will assess the surface as I said and sum things up from there. Here’s a place Nathan has done really well in the previous matches, he’s a quality bowler. We will consider the options and see how we go.”
Batters In Contention for Recall
The wicketkeeper-batter will also have to see whether he has made the team. The batter is the frontrunner to enter the lineup in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with Travis Head touted to take the opening spot again after his brilliant performance in Perth.
“Many options are on the table,” Smith explained. “It's a matter of waiting what the pitch is like and from there we’ll determine a lineup.”
“[Inglis] is obviously a pretty attacking player,” Smith added. “Did really well on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in excellent touch... He faces quicks very well. So if he is selected I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”
Final Decision Pending
In addition to Inglis, Beau Webster is under consideration to be selected at No 6, on the likelihood that Travis Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and Cam Green shifts to number five.
Smith noted a official announcement on the team could be made before the day ends, but alternatively, it may wait until the morning of the Test. Play gets under way at the Gabba at 2pm local time (3pm AEDT) on Thursday.