Pat Cummins’ Return Delayed as Australia Announce Squad for Second Ashes Test in Brisbane

Cricket Australia has announced an unchanged squad for the second Test of the Ashes 2025–26 series, confirming that star fast bowler Pat Cummins will not return for the Brisbane Test. Australia will face England at the iconic Gabba from December 4, holding a crucial 1–0 lead in the series.

Cummins’ Recovery Continues; Steve Smith to Lead Again

Cummins, who missed the first Test due to a lumbar bone stress injury, has been given additional recovery time. Despite impressing in recent training sessions, team management has opted for caution.

• Cummins bowled for over an hour with the pink ball at the SCG, even delivering to stand-in skipper Steve Smith, but selectors decided against rushing him back.
• He will travel with the team to Brisbane and is expected to be available for the third Test, barring any setbacks.

This means Steve Smith will continue as captain for the second consecutive match.

Usman Khawaja Retains Spot Despite Back Spasms

Veteran opener Usman Khawaja has also been named in the squad. Khawaja suffered back spasms during the Perth opener, which prevented him from batting in the second innings. Medical staff are optimistic about his readiness for Brisbane.

Strong Start Gives Australia Breathing Space

Australia enters the Brisbane Test with confidence after a comfortable victory in the first Test. With a settled lineup and strong bowling depth, selectors saw no reason to make changes.

• The pace attack of Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, and Michael Neser remains intact.
• Australia’s middle order—anchored by Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, and Cameron Green—will aim to build on their solid form.
• Spinner Nathan Lyon also holds his place as the team’s frontline tweaker.

The decision to preserve Cummins reflects both long-term planning and trust in the squad’s current balance.

Australia’s Squad for the Second Test (Brisbane)

Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster

Additional Context: Why Cummins’ Injury Is Being Managed Carefully

Lumbar stress injuries are common among fast bowlers due to repetitive high-impact load. Since Cummins is not only a frontline pacer but also Australia’s full-time captain, medical and coaching staff are prioritising his long-term fitness for the remainder of the Ashes and the season ahead.

Selectors reportedly prefer a fully fit Cummins for the more demanding third and fourth Tests rather than risking aggravation early in the series.

What to Expect in Brisbane

• The Gabba traditionally favours fast bowlers, which suits Australia’s deep pace reserves.
• England, under pressure after losing the first Test, may consider altering their attack for better conditions.
• Australia’s decision to maintain squad stability signals confidence in the group that secured a strong opening win.

With Cummins close to full fitness and Khawaja recovering well, Australia’s prospects for a 2–0 series lead look solid.