Cricket Australia (CA) have announced their 14-man squad for the upcoming second ashes test against EnglandIt is going to take place at Gabba in Brisbane. The announcement confirms that key fast bowlers, captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, have been sidelined as they continue their respective recoveries.
Why will Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood miss the Gabba Test?
regular captain pat cummins He has not been put at risk for the Gabba match as he has recovered from a lower back stress injury. Although he took part in extensive pink-ball bowling sessions in Sydney, the selectors decided not to rush his return. The team management is adopting a cautious approach, with the hope that Cummins will be fit to lead the team in the third Test in Adelaide.
Fellow frontline paceman Josh Hazlewood also missed the Brisbane Test. Hazlewood is working his way back to full fitness after suffering a hamstring strain. The selectors have prioritized the full recovery of any of their key fast bowlers, opting to bring them back into the field ahead of schedule.
Who will lead Australia’s pace attack?
With both Cummins and Hazlewood unavailable, interim captain Steve Smith is expected to retain the same successful bowling lineup that led to the win in Perth. The pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Brendan Doggett will likely lead the attack, supported by experienced spinner Nathan Lyon. That looks set to continue for Doggett, who impressed the selectors in his Test debut.
Usman Khawaja and Travis Head’s roles at Gabba
Usman Khawaja has retained his place in the team despite suffering back spasms in the recent Perth Test. His fitness will be important, as he is expected to strengthen the top order.
While Travis Head’s explosive performance as a makeshift opener in Perth sparked discussion, he remains a sure-fire member of the middle order, dependent on Khawaja’s fitness. The team’s bench strength remains intact with Josh Inglis, Michael Neser and Beau Webster available as cover, although they are likely to be included should any late fitness concerns arise.
Australia’s 14-member team for Gaba test
Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendon Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.
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