Australia's bid to retain the Ashes has encountered a significant hurdle ahead of the crucial second Test, with experienced opener Usman Khawaja officially ruled out due to a persistent back injury.
Khawaja's Injury Casts Shadow Over Gabba Clash
The Australian team confirmed the news on Tuesday 2 December 2025, stating the 38-year-old batsman will miss the match at Brisbane's Gabba ground, which begins on Thursday. Khawaja had been struggling with back spasms that prevented him from opening the batting in either innings during Australia's eight-wicket victory in the first Test in Perth.
His discomfort persisted during a net session at the Gabba on Monday, forcing the selectors' hand. Despite the setback, Khawaja will remain with the squad, keeping alive his ambition to extend his Test career beyond his 39th birthday next month.
Head Set to Open as Australia Reshuffle
In a move that signals their intent, Australia have decided not to call up a replacement player, opting instead to reshuffle their existing batting order. This decision makes it highly probable that Travis Head will continue at the top of the order after his spectacular, match-defining century in Perth.
Head's brilliant knock of 123 as a makeshift opener has seemingly solved a pressing problem for the hosts. The vacancy was created following David Warner's retirement in January 2024, with both Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith having been trialled in the role since.
However, Labuschagne explicitly told media on Monday that he would not be reprising the opening role. Should Head be confirmed as Khawaja's replacement, it would create a space in the middle order, likely to be filled by either Josh Inglis or Beau Webster.
England Tweak Attack for Gabba Challenge
Meanwhile, England have also announced their team for the second Test, making one enforced change. Will Jacks comes into the side, replacing the injured Mark Wood, who is managing a knee issue following surgery earlier this year.
This move represents a tactical shift from the all-seam attack deployed in Perth. England will hope the inclusion of Jacks, a regular in their white-ball setups, provides greater batting depth at number eight. This addresses a critical weakness exposed in the first Test, where batting collapses in both innings ultimately cost them the match.
The stage is now set for a pivotal encounter at the Gabba, with both teams forced to adapt their plans due to fitness concerns at a key juncture in the Ashes series.
