England have confirmed their playing XI for the second Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, making a single but significant change from the Perth Test. Off-spinning all-rounder Will Jacks has earned a long-awaited recall to the Test side after nearly three years, last featuring in the Multan Test against Pakistan in December 2022. He replaces veteran pacer Mark Wood, who is being managed carefully through the series to keep him fit for the crucial upcoming matches.

Jacks, still relatively new to the Test arena with only two matches under his belt, steps in as England’s second spin option. After the setback in Perth, the visitors have opted to deepen their batting reserves while adding a dependable slow-bowling alternative. Despite the tweak, England will still field a strong four-man pace attack led by captain Ben Stokes, who impressed with a five-wicket haul last week.

Pacers Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Jofra Archer all retain their places, giving England plenty of firepower with the pink ball. Speaking to ECB media, Jacks expressed immense excitement over his recall.

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“To be on an Ashes tour in itself is something I wouldn’t have imagined a few months ago,” he said. “To be in the XI is a dream come true. Being part of an away Ashes series is incredibly special.” Will Jacks revealed that head coach Brendon McCullum informed him of the decision after Monday’s training session, making the moment even more memorable.

📋 We’ve made one change to our XI for the second Test…

Enter stage right, Will Jacks 👊

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) December 2, 2025

With the Gabba Test a day-night fixture, England’s strategy reflects the unique demands of the pink ball, which tends to swing more during twilight.

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Opting for an extra batter and one fewer fast bowler could help stabilise the middle order, while still trusting their pacers to exploit movement under lights. Whether this balance delivers results remains to be seen, as England look to bounce back strongly after going 0–1 down in Perth, courtesy of Mitchell Starc and Travis Head’s match-winning performances.

England playing XI for 2nd Ashes Test: Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jofra Arche