Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out of the second Ashes Test, which starts on December 4, as Cricket Australia have named an unchanged squad for the day–night affair.
Both pacers, who are nursing injuries, were unable to prove their fitness. While the chances of Hazlewood playing the second Test were bleak, Cummins had been tipped to play after his intense training session at the SCG on Friday. The incumbent captain will now have two weeks to prepare for the third Test, scheduled to be played at the Adelaide Oval.
Usman Khawaja has retained his place in the squad despite concerns about his fitness, having suffered back spasms in Perth and played little part in his team’s win. There were growing concerns about his position after Travis Head smashed a 69-ball century at the top of the order in his absence to take the team home in what looked like a tricky run chase. It remains to be seen whether the team management stick with Khawaja or opt for Head.
Head opening the batting vacates a spot in the middle order, which could be filled by Beau Webster or Josh Inglis.
Australia lead the five-match series 1–0, having wrapped up the first Test by eight wickets in two days.
Australia squad for Brisbane 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
For More Sports Related News: Follow RevSportz