Australia's playing eleven for the next Test match is still a mystery just hours out from the match start in Brisbane, with a further inspection of the Gabba pitch needed before the Australian selectors name a squad that could still contain Pat Cummins.
Stand-in Captain Smith Leaves Door Open for Surprise Recall
Stand-in captain Steve Smith spoke to an journalists on the eve of the Test but was unable to reveal the exact make-up of the XI. Yet, he left the door open a shock return for 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 bowled in the nets,” Smith stated. “Of course the game is different, but he’s coming along well, he understands his fitness.”
11th-Hour Draft Remains a Live Option
The quick was originally omitted in Australia’s extended squad for the second match, but still travelled to the Gabba to work on his fitness with the group. Smith indicated he was improving nicely and may be called up at the final moment.
“It's a waiting game but as stated, he’s near,” Smith added. “He’s done everything really well the recent period and we’ll see after three o’clock when we look at that wicket whether he’s an option or not.”
Selection Dilemmas Ahead if Cummins Plays
A comeback for Cummins, which appeared unlikely just a recently, would mean recent Test player Brendan Doggett or even experienced spinner Nathan Lyon being omitted.
Smith did not assure Lyon’s place in the team when questioned about the off-spinner’s selection.
“Not sure,” he replied. “We will assess the pitch as I said and determine our strategy from there. Here’s a place Nathan has excelled in the history, he’s a quality bowler. We’ll weigh up the alternatives and see how we go.”
Batters In Contention for Recall
Josh Inglis will also have to see whether he has earned a recall. The batter is the leading candidate to enter the lineup in place of the injured Usman Khawaja, with the left-hander likely to take the opening spot again after his heroics in the first Test.
“Several scenarios are being discussed,” Smith said. “The decision is pending what the pitch is like and from there we’ll determine a lineup.”
“[Inglis] is obviously a very aggressive player,” Smith added. “Impressed on his first Test in Sri Lanka, he’s been in really good form... He faces quicks exceptionally. So if he gets the nod I’m sure he’ll do really well for us.”
Last-Minute Call Timeline
Along with Inglis, the all-rounder is in contention to return to the side at number six, on the expectation that Travis Head partners as opener alongside Jake Weatherald, and the all-rounder moves up to No 5.
Smith indicated a definite call on the lineup is possible before the day ends, but equally it could be delayed until the morning of the Test. The match starts at the Brisbane Cricket Ground at 2pm local time (1500 AEDT) on tomorrow.
