**Cummins’ Comeback Looms as Australia Keeps Gabba Test XI Under Wraps**
*Brisbane, December 13* – The Australian camp has kept fans and pundits guessing by delaying the announcement of their playing XI for the highly anticipated pink-ball Test at the Gabba, fueling speculation over the potential return of skipper Pat Cummins.
Cummins, who has been sidelined for over four months, was seen bowling in the nets alongside Mitchell Starc, raising hopes of a dramatic comeback. However, stand-in captain Steve Smith remained tight-lipped about the final decision, which is expected to be made by the selectors on Wednesday.
### **A Green Gabba Pitch with a Twist**
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Smith provided intriguing insights into the Gabba surface. “It looked green from afar, but with the dry weather, it might change,” he said. “It’s still quite grassy and a little soft, but it’s going to bake under the sun today. The curator might take a bit off it, so it could look different in a few hours.”
If Cummins is cleared, his inclusion would be a major boost for Australia, especially after he was initially left out of the 14-member squad. “He looks pretty good to me in the nets,” Smith said. “Games are a different intensity, but he’s tracking well. He knows his body, so we’ll wait and see.”
### **Khawaja’s Replacement & Middle-Order Shuffle**
Another key talking point is the replacement for injured opener Usman Khawaja. Josh Inglis, fresh off a Sheffield Shield century, appears to be the frontrunner, though his potential inclusion could trigger a reshuffle, with Travis Head possibly moving up the order. All-rounder Beau Webster is also in contention, adding to the uncertainty around Australia’s final XI.
“A whole heap of things are on the table,” Smith admitted. “We’ll wait and see what the wicket looks like and then determine the playing XI.”
### **Lyon’s Pink-Ball Dilemma**
If Cummins returns, Australia may opt to rest their premier spinner, Nathan Lyon, given his limited role in previous pink-ball Tests. Lyon was notably absent from Australia’s last day-night Test in Jamaica and bowled just one over in the 2021 pink-ball Test against India. His involvement in the recent Perth Test was also minimal.
“I’m not sure,” Smith said when asked about Lyon’s role. “He’s done well here in the past, but we’ll weigh up the options based on the surface.”
### **Final Call Awaited**
With the Gabba Test just hours away, all eyes are on Australia’s selectors. Will Cummins make a heroic return? Will Lyon sit out? And who will fill Khawaja’s shoes? The suspense continues, but one thing is certain—Australia’s tactical decisions could shape the course of this Ashes battle.
*Stay tuned for more updates as the drama unfolds at the Gabba!*