Summary: Australia captain Pat Cummins and paceman Josh Hazlewood will miss the second Ashes Test due to injury. Steve Smith will lead the team in Brisbane, as Australia seeks to extend its 1-0 series lead. Usman Khawaja is retained despite injury concerns, while Travis Head’s strong performance puts selection pressure on the opening slot.
Cummins and Hazlewood will be sidelined for the second Ashes Test in Brisbane, marking a significant development for the Australian squad. Captain Pat Cummins, recovering from a lumbar stress injury since July, is unavailable despite traveling with the team. Josh Hazlewood, dealing with a hamstring strain, also continues his recovery.
Impact on the Squad: Cummins and Hazlewood’s Absence
The absence of these key pacemen means Steve Smith will again lead the Australian side. Mitchell Starc will spearhead the pace attack, supported by Scott Boland and Brendan Doggett. This lineup aims to build on Australia’s 1-0 series lead, following their eight-wicket victory over England in Perth, as reported by SindhNews.com.
Opening batter Usman Khawaja has been retained in the squad despite experiencing back spasms in the previous match. However, his position is under scrutiny after Travis Head’s match-winning 123 opening the batting in Perth. Australia coach and selector Andrew McDonald had initially given Cummins until the “11th hour” to prove fitness for the Gabba match, commencing December 4. The sustained injuries to Cummins and Hazlewood necessitate strategic adjustments.
Conclusion: The continued unavailability of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood significantly impacts Australia’s team composition for the second Ashes Test. While a strong batting lineup and experienced stand-in captain remain, their absence places greater reliance on the remaining fast bowlers to secure a crucial advantage in the series.