The fitness of four key quicks, as well as the pitch conditions in Sydney could see Australia blood another debutant for the Sydney Test.
While a victory in the Boxing Day Test (which is currently ongoing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground) would see Australia win the Ashes series with a pair of Tests remaining, the Sydney and Hobart Tests still remain to be played.
It's understood the Australian selectors are currently toying with the idea of playing two spinners, with Mitchell Swepson in line for a potential debut.
The Daily Telegraph are reporting that Josh Hazlewood is to no certainty to return, while the team will also look to rest Mitchell Starc if possible. He has an average record at the Sydney Cricket Ground, and a pink ball Test in Hobart would suit him down to the ground.
Both Jhye Richardson and Michael Neser - who played in Adelaide - are also under injury clouds, meaning the only certainty to play in the front line bowling attack is Cummins, provided of course he makes the end of the Melbourne Test and the pre-game for Sydney without incident.
It's not thought that Scott Boland is likely to back up in Sydney, although that could yet change.
Even if one of Richardson, Neser, Halzewood or Starc play, it would still leave a free spot in the attack for Swepson, and with Cameron Green batting at six and bowling as well as any of the front line quicks, it could mean Australia take him as their third seamer to New South Wales capital.
