Veteran Australian batter Usman Khawaja is all but ruled out of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane after failing to prove his fitness two days ahead of the series opener on Thursday.
Due to a back spasm, Khawaja, the designated opener, was unable to bat in either innings of the first Test in Perth.
The 38-year-old underwent a 30-minute net session on Tuesday in a bid to prove his fitness but appeared uncomfortable. Stand-in captain Steve Smith, head coach Andrew McDonald, and chief selector George Bailey closely monitored the session before releasing a statement.
“Usman Khawaja remains short of full fitness three days out from the second Ashes Test at the Gabba, after the opener was put through his paces for the first time since injuring his back last week,” Cricket Australia said in a media release.
Khawaja will remain with the team in Brisbane, and the medical staff will continue to monitor his progress.
While he has not been replaced in the squad, his international future is now in doubt as he approaches his 39th birthday.
The third Test begins in Adelaide on 17 December, giving Khawaja two weeks to recover, although questions remain over whether he can regain his place.
With Khawaja ruled out, Australia will have to choose between Beau Webster and Josh Inglis for the vacant spot. Webster was omitted when Cameron Green reclaimed his place in the playing XI for the Perth Test. He could be selected if Australia decides to continue with Travis Head at the top of the order. If Head does not open, Josh Inglis—who recently scored a century against the England Lions while opening—will make his first Test appearance since the Sri Lanka tour earlier this year.
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