As he recovers from injury, captain Pat Cummins was left out of Australia’s unaltered squad for the day-night second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane on Friday. However, under-pressure opener Usman Khawaja was retained.
As expected, Josh Hazlewood, a fellow standout pacer who is still recovering from a hamstring issue, was also absent.
Since suffering a lower back injury against the West Indies four months ago, Cummins has not participated in any games.
He has been bowling at full pace in the nets in recent weeks and stated this weekend that he was “half a chance” to play in Brisbane. However, he missed the fast-paced opening Test in Perth, which Australia won by eight wickets in two days.
Selectors are obviously taking no chances with the 32-year-old, who will now be aiming for the third Test in Adelaide on December 17.
As a result, Steve Smith will continue to serve as captain, while Brendan Doggett will once again front the attack alongside Perth 10-wicket hero Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland on what is anticipated to be another fast track.
Australia hopes to solidify their position and take a 2-0 lead in the five-Test series when the Gabba Test begins on December 4.
Cummins will go to Brisbane to continue his preparations despite missing out, according to Cricket Australia.
Despite growing clamor for the veteran’s removal, Khawaja was included in the team. Due to back spasms, the 38-year-old, who hasn’t scored a Test century at home since January 2023, was unable to open either innings in Perth.
Marnus Labuschagne first took his turn at the top with Jake Weatherald, followed in the second inning by Travis Head.
Head, who typically bats at No. 5 but opens in white-ball formats, made the most of his promotion, blasting a stunning 123 off 83 balls to power Australia to victory.
Whether Khawaja retains his place in the XI is uncertain, with Australia unlikely to finalise their lineup until the eve of the match.
In-form all-rounder Beau Webster and a useful supplementary bowling option could become available if selectors decide to stick with Head and axe Khawaja.
Australia squad: Steve Smith (capt), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster
