Australia have been dealt with a blow ahead of the second Ashes Test (Gabba), that starts on Thursday. Opener Usman Khawaja has been ruled out of the pink ball Test due a back injury, that he sustained during the Perth match. That means, the Steve Smith-led side will have to opt for a make-shift opener in the key clash.
No Khawaja for 2nd Ashes Test
Khwaja did try to train for 30 minutes on Tuesday, but was uncomfortable during his net-stint. Meanwhile, the two options that Australia could consider could be Travis Head or Marnus Labuschagne. Head coach Andrew McDonald has also hinted at an hybrid approach.
Also, in consideration could be explosive batter Josh Inglis, who impressed with a ton for Cricket Australia XI vs the England Lions, last week. Of course, there will be the presence of Beau Webster in the middle-order, who has been decent with the bat and ball. He averages 34 with the bat and 23 with the ball, but had missed out of the 1st Test.
Chance for England to Make Comeback
Other than that, their premium pacers Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins are out injured as well, so that presents a real chance to visiting-England side to make a comeback. Earlier, in the first match, Head had slammed a quickfire ton in the second innings, to take his side to a thumping victory.
Australia squad: 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.
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