Australia Sticks with Winning Combination for Gabba Clash
In a move highlighting a cautious long-term strategy, the Australian cricket selectors have named an unchanged 14-man squad for the second Ashes Test against England. The highly anticipated returns of pace spearheads Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have been delayed, with the team management opting not to rush the star bowlers back from their injuries.
Injury Recovery Timeline for Pace Duo
Captain Pat Cummins, who missed the first Test in Perth due to a lumbar stress issue, showed significant improvement during training sessions at the SCG. He bowled at full intensity with the pink ball and completed long spells under the watchful eye of skipper Steve Smith. Despite this positive progress, the selectors have decided to err on the side of caution.
They are unwilling to risk their captain so early in the demanding five-match series. Cummins will travel with the squad to Brisbane but is now officially targeting a comeback in the third Test in Adelaide, which begins on December 17.
The situation with Josh Hazlewood appears even more measured. The fast bowler also participated in bowling drills this week but was notably using a red ball instead of the pink ball that will be used in the upcoming day-night Test at the Gabba. This is a clear indication that his recovery from a hamstring strain is being managed conservatively. Team coach Andrew McDonald has expressed hope for Hazlewood's availability later in the series but has firmly ruled out any premature return.
Opportunity Knocks for Debutant Doggett
The decision to stick with the same squad means Queensland quick Brendan Doggett is in a prime position to retain his spot in the playing eleven. Doggett made a superb debut in Perth, claiming a five-wicket haul and impressing everyone with his control and calm temperament under pressure.
Meanwhile, veteran opener Usman Khawaja has been included in the squad but must first prove his fitness. He was forced to sit out Australia's second innings in the opening Test due to back spasms. His condition creates an interesting dynamic at the top of the order.
Travis Head, who blitzed the second-fastest century in Ashes history while filling in as an opener, has remained flexible about his batting position. Coach McDonald hinted that the team's batting order will be reassessed once Khawaja's fitness status becomes clearer before the match.
England's Unconventional Brisbane Prep
As Australia solidifies its plans, the England team has arrived in Brisbane with a surprising approach to preparation. Instead of arranging a full-scale pink-ball practice match, only squad members Jacob Bethell, Matthew Potts, and Josh Tongue are scheduled to feature in a fixture against the Prime Minister's XI.
Ben Stokes' men will begin their official training at the Gabba on Sunday, aiming to level the series after suffering an eight-wicket defeat in the first Test at Perth.
Australia's squad for the second Ashes Test: Steve Smith (c), 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.
