Australia announces squad for second Ashes Test

WEB DESK: Australia has opted for stability ahead of the second day-night Ashes Test in Brisbane, naming an unchanged 14-man squad as captain Pat Cummins continues his recovery from a lingering lower-back injury.

Cummins, who suffered the setback during the West Indies series four months ago, was ruled out of the opening Test and will again be unavailable for selection. Despite this, Cricket Australia confirmed he will travel with the team to Brisbane to resume light training and monitor his fitness progress.

Australia made a dominant start to the Ashes campaign with an emphatic eight-wicket victory inside two days, but their fast-bowling stocks remain stretched. Josh Hazlewood, also recovering from a hamstring issue, has missed selection for a second consecutive match.

Amid scrutiny over his recent form, opener Usman Khawaja has retained his place in the squad and is expected to continue at the top of the order.

The second Test is set to begin on December 4, with Australia aiming to extend their early lead in the five-match series.

AUSTRALIA’S 14-MAN SQUAD

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