Ahead of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, Australian skipper Steve Smith has not ruled out a surprise return for fast bowler Pat Cummins — despite him being left out of the initial squad because of a back injury.

Smith said Cummins “looked good” in recent net sessions and could still be considered for selection, depending on how he performs closer to match-day.

If Cummins does make a comeback, it could mean a shift in the bowling lineup — with one-match fast bowler Brendan Doggett or spinner Nathan Lyon possibly losing their place.

On the batting side, with veteran opener Usman Khawaja ruled out due to back problems, Travis Head is expected to open again after his explosive performance in the first Test. Meanwhile Inglis — an England-born wicketkeeper-batter — is in line for a middle-order spot if selected, potentially making his first home Test appearance after a solid international start.

The final playing XI, however, won’t be confirmed until the toss on match-day — keeping excitement high as fans await Australia’s lineup for the Gabba Test.