Australia's bid to retain the Ashes has suffered a significant setback just days before the crucial second Test, with key batsman Usman Khawaja officially ruled out.
Injury Sidelines Australian Opener
Usman Khawaja will play no part in the upcoming match at Brisbane's Gabba ground due to a persistent back issue. The experienced opener's absence is a major blow for the home side's top order as they look to build on their first Test performance.
The news was confirmed on Tuesday, 2nd December 2025. Khawaja's ongoing problem has failed to improve sufficiently, forcing selectors to leave him out of contention for the match starting later this week.
Australian Reshuffle and England's Response
In Khawaja's absence, Travis Head is now expected to continue as an opener, having impressed with a score of 123 in the first Test. This move creates a vacancy in the middle order, which is likely to be filled by either Josh Inglis or Beau Webster.
England have also reacted to their first Test display by making one enforced change to their lineup. Mark Wood is missing as he recovers from a knee injury, creating an opportunity for all-rounder Will Jacks.
Jacks, a regular feature in England's white-ball teams, is set to bat at number eight. The selection aims to add much-needed batting depth following several collapses in the series opener.
Implications for the Ashes Series
Khawaja's withdrawal alters the dynamic for both teams. Australia lose a seasoned campaigner at the top of the innings, while England see a chance to exploit potential instability in a reshuffled batting order.
The inclusion of Will Jacks provides England with an additional spin option and a powerful hitter lower down, which could prove vital on what is expected to be a hard Gabba pitch. The selection decisions from both camps set the stage for a fascinating contest in Brisbane, with the series finely poised.
