Australia faced a major blow on Tuesday (December 2) with confirmation that senior opener Usman Khawaja will miss the second Test of the 2025–26 Ashes series against England due to a back injury. The upcoming Test, starting December 4 at The Gabba in Brisbane, will be a day-night contest played with the pink ball—conditions where Khawaja’s experience would have been invaluable.
Khawaja had already shown signs of discomfort during the first Test in Perth, where he did not come out to bat in Australia’s second innings. In his absence, Travis Head stepped up to open the chase of 205. Head, who smashed a blistering 69-ball century in the match, is likely to open the innings once again.
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As per a report by cricket.com.au, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis and all-rounder Beau Webster are both strong contenders to return to the playing XI after Khawaja’s exclusion. Interestingly, Australia have not named a replacement in the squad, leaving room for flexibility in their team combination.
No Usman Khawaja for the Gabba Test ❌#Ashes pic.twitter.com/YfhfJoUC12
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 2, 2025
Usman Khawaja, who turns 39 later next year and has over 3000 World Test Championship runs, attempted a 30-minute hit in the Gabba nets on Tuesday. However, he appeared uncomfortable throughout the session and has not recovered sufficiently to be considered for selection.
Australia’s squad for the second Test includes: Steve Smith (C), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (WK), Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (WK), Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, and Beau Webster.
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Head coach Andrew McDonald hinted at a possible hybrid batting order, adapting to conditions. Inglis, who scored a Test century earlier this year in Sri Lanka, remains a strong opening option after his recent ton for the Cricket Australia XI against England Lions. If Australia decide to shield Head from the new pink ball, Inglis could partner Jake Weatherald at the top in Brisbane.
