Smith Hints at Cummins’ Return for Second Ashes Test

Australia’s captain Steve Smith has not ruled out the surprise inclusion of fast bowler Pat Cummins in the second Ashes Test against England. Despite Cummins being sidelined from the first Test due to a back injury, Smith said the fast bowler appeared fit and was in good condition during training. Cummins had been omitted from the squad for the second Test but may still be part of selectors’ discussions ahead of the match in Brisbane. “He looks pretty good to me,” Smith told reporters, hinting that Cummins’ return is possible.

Smith also addressed the team’s lineup, mentioning that Nathan Lyon’s place in the XI was not yet confirmed. The selectors may choose to include Cummins, possibly dropping one-test bowler Brendan Doggett to make room. With Usman Khawaja ruled out due to a back injury, Travis Head is expected to open the batting. Head’s performance as a makeshift opener in Perth, where he scored a match-winning 123 runs, has made him a key player for the day-night test at the Gabba.

Local reports suggest that wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis will replace Head in the middle order. Smith praised Inglis, who scored a century on his debut against Sri Lanka earlier this year. Smith said Inglis had been in great form and played fast bowling well, making him a strong option for Australia’s lineup. The team is expected to finalize their XI after assessing the pitch at the Gabba during training on match day. Cricket Australia confirmed that the lineup would be announced only after the toss.

The second Ashes Test will be played under lights, using the pink ball, which tends to swing more during the twilight and evening sessions. However, Smith noted that Brisbane’s relatively harder wicket could provide better conditions for batters compared to Adelaide Oval. Australia has dominated pink-ball tests, winning 12 out of 13 matches they have hosted. Their sole loss came against the West Indies at the Gabba in January 2024.

Australia leads the five-match series 1-0 after their dominant victory in the first Test in Perth. The second Test will begin on Thursday at the Gabba in Brisbane, with both teams looking to make an impact in the series.

READ MORE : Australia’s Glenn Maxwell Announces Retirement from ODI Cricket

According to Cricket Australia, Maxwell will now shift his focus entirely toward T20 cricket, especially the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. However, he has not yet formally retired from Test cricket.

Speaking during an episode of The Final Word podcast, Maxwell reflected on the physical and emotional challenges he faced, particularly after a serious leg injury in 2022. He admitted that during that period, he felt like he was letting his team down.