Pat Cummins is expected to be cleared to play for Australia in the second Ashes Test at the Gabba, potentially increasing the challenge for England after their eight-wicket defeat in Perth. The 32-year-old pace bowler missed the series opener due to a lower back stress injury but has trained fully with the squad in Brisbane.
Australia have yet to name their XI, with a decision expected at the toss on Thursday. Cummins' return would likely force a choice between dropping spinner Nathan Lyon or omitting debutant Brendan Doggett, who took five wickets in Perth. Captain Steve Smith said: 'He's looked pretty good to me, the way he's bowled in the nets.'
England captain Ben Stokes acknowledged Cummins' quality, stating: 'Pat is awesome. Has been for a very, very, very long time. Whatever XI they go with, we'll still be going in there to try and get the win this week.'
Australia are also set to replace injured opener Usman Khawaja with Josh Inglis, who scored a century on Test debut in Sri Lanka and recently struck 125 not out against the England Lions. Smith praised Inglis as 'a pretty attacking batsman' who 'plays fast bowling really nicely'.
