Brisbane, Dec. 3 -- Pat Cummins is in contention for a sensational return to Australia's playing XI for the second Test against England at the Gabba, with selectors set to take a final call on Wednesday afternoon following a further inspection at the pitch, as per ESPNcricinfo.

Australia's stand-in skipper Steven Smith did not confirm the XI during Wednesday's press conference, stating that the decision would be taken later in the day. This keeps the door open for Cummins to resume captaincy and also raises the possibility of Australia going without their only specialist spinner Nathan Lyon for a second consecutive day-night Test.

Australia must also find a replacement for injured opener Usman Khawaja. Josh Inglis is currently seen as t...