Australia have held back their team announcement for the second Ashes Test, keeping alive the possibility of Pat Cummins returning to the side. The 32-year-old fast bowler missed the opening Test with a back injury that has kept him sidelined since July. Despite bowling in Perth and again in Sydney, he was initially left out of the squad for the Brisbane day-night Test starting Thursday. However, his full training session in Brisbane has prompted Australia to reconsider.
Selectors Assess Cummins’ Fitness
Cummins met with stand-in captain Steve Smith, head coach Andrew McDonald and selector George Bailey at the Gabba. Following the discussion, Australia confirmed they will delay naming their XI until the toss. Smith said the team would wait to examine the pitch before finalising their selection, adding that Cummins “looks pretty good” in the nets and has been steadily increasing his workload.
Potential Changes for Brisbane Test
If fit, Cummins could replace debutant Brendan Doggett or frontline spinner Nathan Lyon, depending on conditions. Australia are already set to make at least one change after opener Usman Khawaja failed to recover from back spasms. Josh Inglis is likely to return to the top order after impressing in recent domestic matches and scoring a century on Test debut earlier this year.
England Confirm Their Playing XI
England have named their side, including spin-bowling all-rounder Will Jacks, who replaces the injured Mark Wood. Skipper Ben Stokes acknowledged the uncertainty around Australia’s lineup but said England’s focus remains unchanged. Australia lead the series 1-0 and will look to strengthen their position, particularly with Cummins—one of the world’s best pink-ball bowlers—close to returning.
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