Australia has confirmed an unchanged 14-man squad for the upcoming day-night Ashes Test in Brisbane, with captain Pat Cummins not yet cleared to return from a back injury. The decision comes despite Cummins resuming training, including sessions with the pink ball that will be used under lights at the Gabba.
Josh Hazlewood also remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from a hamstring issue. Both senior bowlers were absent during Australia’s eight-wicket victory in the first Test at Perth, a match where England’s second-innings collapse proved decisive.
With the series lead intact, selectors have opted against rushing Cummins back. Steve Smith will again lead the side in Brisbane, where a second consecutive win would put Australia on the brink of retaining the Ashes.
The unchanged squad still leaves room for selection debate, particularly at the top of the order. Travis Head’s aggressive 69-ball century as an emergency opener in Perth has sparked calls for his promotion to become permanent. Such a move could open a middle-order spot for either Josh Inglis or all-rounder Beau Webster, placing veteran opener Usman Khawaja under pressure.
Khawaja, who missed much of the Perth Test due to back spasms, revealed he was prepared to have an epidural injection if needed to bat in England’s second innings. The 38-year-old also voiced strong criticism of the Perth Stadium pitch, contradicting the “very good” rating given by the match referee.
According to reports, Khawaja described the day-one surface in blunt terms, noting the high number of wickets and batsmen being struck. He argued such conditions make batting unpredictable and unfair, though he acknowledged the pitch typically improves on days two and three.
Meanwhile, Hazlewood was spotted training alongside Cummins in Sydney but was reportedly still bowling at reduced intensity as he works his way back to full fitness.
