Last Updated on 5 months ago by Charbel Coorey
Australia’s XI for the second Ashes Test at the Gabba is a hot topic of debate. The Perth Test finishing in just two days has given fans and pundits more time to speculate, especially given Travis Head played a blinder of an innings as opener in Australia’s successful run chase of 205.
However, Usman Khawaja was ruled out two days out from the second Test due to back spasms. He didn’t open in either innings at Perth and looked in discomfort all match.
Also, Pat Cummins has not been named in the second Test squad, as reported by cricket.com.au. But, journalist Daniel Cherny reports selectors are yet to rule out a late inclusion for Cummins.
“I’m not sure a decision’s been made on that yet,” Boland said, as quoted by CODE Sports.
“I’d love to see him out there playing. He looked in red hot form the other night. It’s as good as you’ll see a fast bowler charging in the nets, and we know how good he is. He’s the best bowler in the world, so we want him out there as desperately as what everyone else does.”
Australia possible XI for 2nd Ashes Test at the Gabba: 1. Travis Head, 2. Jake Weatherald, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith (c), 5. Josh Inglis, 6. Cameron Green, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Nathan Lyon, 10. Scott Boland, 11. Pat Cummins/Brendon Doggett
According to journalist Robbert Craddock, selectors were considering playing Khawaja had he been fit. However, now that Khawaja is out, Craddock fears it’s the end of his career.
“I’m hearing that it’s a really tight call [between Khawaja and Travis Head for opener],” Craddock said on SENQ Breakfast.
“Usman is coming towards the end. This will be his last season.
“He averages 50 at the Gabba in first-class cricket; it’s his home ground for Queensland.
“He averages 37 (at the Gabba) in Tests, which is not great but passable. So, he may just hang on and be returned to the team.
“If the back injury keeps him out of the team, that will probably be the end of him, but if he is passed fit from the back injury, I think he might just sneak into the team.”
Australia have the option of either Josh Inglis or Beau Webster for the middle order. According to CODE Sports, Inglis may be preferred as he spent time fielding at third slip.
Matt Renshaw, who has been in excellent form this season, is expected to feature for Australia A against England Lions next week.
Another point of contention is whether Nathan Lyon will play. The offspinner has been on the periphery for large parts of the past two seasons as pace continues to dominate. If Australia make the call to drop Lyon, room opens up for both Webster and Inglis to play.
However, former captain Michael Clarke said Australia must pick Lyon.
“He’s in for sure,” said Clarke to ESPNcricinfo. “He’s in my XI every Test match. Unless it’s an absolute raging green seamer.
“If Hazlewood and Cummins are not 100% fit, I’m going in with the same XI.”
Squad for second Test: Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster
