Australia's Second Ashes Test Squad Announced: Cummins Out, Doggett in
The Aussies have named a 14-player squad for the second Ashes Test against England, with some notable changes.
Pat Cummins, the captain, will miss his second consecutive match due to a back injury. Cummins' absence is a significant blow, as he was a standout performer in the opening Test, taking six wickets to help Australia secure a first-innings lead.
Cummins' injury means he will miss the second Test at the Gabba, which starts on December 4. The captain is undergoing further treatment and will travel to Brisbane to continue his recovery, but the selectors have decided against rushing him back for the day-night contest.
Josh Hazlewood, another key seamer, is also out injured and misses the squad, as he continues his recovery from a hamstring issue. This opens up a spot for Brendan Doggett, who impressed on his debut in Perth. Doggett is likely to get another chance at the Gabba, joining left-armers Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Michael Neser in the pace attack.
Usman Khawaja, the experienced opener, retains his place despite a quiet start to the series. However, he will need to prove his fitness after suffering from back spasms during the Perth Test. All-rounder Beau Webster and back-up batter Josh Inglis are the other options in the squad if Khawaja is not fit.
The Australia squad for the second Test is: 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, and Beau Webster.
The series schedule continues with the second Test at the Gabba from December 4-8, followed by matches in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney.
