Australia have been dealt another significant setback ahead of the second Ashes Test, with veteran opener Usman Khawaja ruled out due to a back injury just two days before the day-night match at the Gabba.
The 38-year-old, who missed his opening duties in the series opener due to back spasms, was unable to prove his fitness during a training and rehabilitation session in Brisbane on Monday evening. Cricket Australia confirmed the development on Tuesday afternoon, announcing that he will remain with the squad to continue his recovery but no replacement has been added to the team list.
“Usman Khawaja has been ruled out of the second Ashes Test match against England in Brisbane with a back injury,” a Cricket Australia statement read. “Khawaja will remain with the team to continue his rehabilitation. He has not been replaced in the squad.”
Khawaja was pictured batting in the nets earlier this week, but discomfort persisted, ending hopes of him featuring in what would have been his home Test at The Gabba.
Selection Shuffle for The Gabba
Khawaja’s absence opens the door for Travis Head to potentially retain the opening role after his spectacular fourth-innings century at Optus Stadium, where he smashed a blistering 100-plus knock that helped secure victory.
Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis has emerged as a surprise option to partner Jake Weatherald at the top, while Beau Webster could be drafted into the middle order should Head be promoted.
Australia are expected to finalise and announce their XI on Wednesday, leaving selectors with important decisions ahead of the pink-ball Test.
Questions Over Future
The injury and ongoing struggle for consistency raise further uncertainty surrounding Khawaja’s Test prospects. He scored only two runs in the opening Test and has averaged 35.6 in 2025 despite a double-century against Sri Lanka earlier in the year. He has just one score above 90 in his past 45 Test innings, adding pressure at a time when competition for places is tightening.
The second Ashes Test begins Thursday evening at The Gabba, with Australia aiming to strengthen their lead in the five-match series.
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