As the 2025–26 Ashes series moves to the second Test at The Gabba in Brisbane, Australia has named an unchanged 14‑player squad, despite missing two of their leading fast bowlers. Pat Cummins remains sidelined due to a lingering lower‑back injury, while Josh Hazlewood continues his recovery from a hamstring strain. Both players were unavailable for the opening Test, yet Australia still secured a convincing eight‑wicket win over England in Perth.
Cummins, the captain and spearhead of the pace attack, had hoped to return for the second Test after recent net sessions, but selectors have opted to rest him further to avoid aggravating his back issue. Hazlewood’s hamstring injury also prevents him from participating, leaving Australia to rely on the remaining bowlers to maintain the pressure on England’s batting lineup.
Despite these absences, the first Test demonstrated Australia’s depth and adaptability. Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Brendan Doggett led the pace attack, delivering incisive spells that kept England on the back foot. Their performance proved that the team can absorb the loss of key players and still perform at a high level under Ashes pressure.
The batting lineup remains largely unchanged, though fitness concerns continue for Usman Khawaja, who has been managing back spasms. His availability will be monitored closely, and there is speculation that Travis Head, who played a blistering innings in Perth, could be considered for a more permanent role in the top order if Khawaja’s condition limits him. This could result in adjustments to the lower-middle order and opportunities for fringe players such as Josh Inglis or all-rounder Beau Webster.
Both Cummins and Hazlewood remain with the squad in Brisbane, undergoing rehabilitation and light training in preparation for potential inclusion later in the series. Their eventual return will be crucial for Australia as the series progresses and the workload of the remaining bowlers increases.
Australia’s decision to maintain an unchanged squad underscores their confidence in the depth of talent available and their belief in the current group’s ability to deliver consistent performances. However, the absence of two premier bowlers presents a strategic challenge, particularly as the Ashes series continues in Australia’s demanding summer conditions.
The second Test at The Gabba will test the interim pace attack’s endurance and effectiveness, as well as the batting unit’s ability to build partnerships under pressure. How well Australia manages these challenges will be critical to maintaining momentum in the series. While Cummins and Hazlewood’s returns are eagerly anticipated, the team’s resilience and adaptability will determine whether they can continue their dominant form and extend their lead in the Ashes series.
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