In a late tweak ahead of the second Test at the Gabba, England have confirmed one change, all-rounder Will Jacks replaces Mark Wood, sidelined by a knee injury. That move keeps Shoaib Bashir, the specialist spinner out of the XI once again.
On the Australian side, veteran opener Usman Khawaja has been ruled out of the Gabba Test after failing to overcome a persistent back complaint. The 38-year-old was unable to bat in the second innings of the first Test in Perth and, despite undergoing a final net session at the Gabba, emerged still troubled.
That absence increases the likelihood of Travis Head (fresh off a century in Perth) partnering Jake Weatherald at the top of the order. Meanwhile, contenders such as Josh Inglis or Beau Webster are in line to fill the vacancy left in the middle order.
Despite his fitness concerns, Khawaja retains a place in the broader squad a detail that leaves the door open for his return, depending on his recovery ahead of the match. For now, though, the balance of the top order looks set to shift in favour of Head and Australia appear ready to adapt.
The second test starts today.
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