Osman Khawaja has been at the center of debate following the first Ashes Test. Opening partner Travis Head’s brilliant innings and Khawaja’s inconsistent form put pressure on selectors. Despite that, Australia has shown faith in the left-handed batsman.
Selectors have named an unchanged squad for the Brisbane Test. They avoided hasty decisions over Khawaja or recalling captain Pat Cummins, who is still recovering from a back injury. Cummins has been training in nets, bowling with stand-in captain Steve Smith for one-hour pink-ball sessions, but the selectors remain cautious.
Cricket Australia stated, “Pat Cummins will travel to Brisbane to continue preparation. He will join the squad from Sunday.” Cummins may return as captain for the third Test starting 17 December in Adelaide.
Hamstring-injured Hazlewood also missed the Brisbane Test. Head’s 123-run innings in the first Test played a crucial role in England’s defeat.
Australian Squad – Brisbane Test:
| Player | Role | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Steve Smith | Captain | Stand-in, strong batting |
| Travis Head | Batsman | Excellent opening form |
| Khawaja | Batsman | Retained for second Test |
| Pat Cummins | All-rounder | Preparing in Brisbane |
| Mitchell Starc | Pacer | Reliable bowler |
The Brisbane Test begins Thursday, with fans eagerly awaiting the return of Cummins and Khawaja’s performance.