Is Pat Cummins Missing Again as Australia Sticks with the Same Squad for the Day-Night Ashes Test?
Synopsis
As the excitement builds for the day-night Ashes Test at the Gabba on December 4, all eyes are on the Australian squad's decision to keep their lineup unchanged while skipper Pat Cummins is sidelined for a second match. Will the team maintain their momentum without him?
Key Takeaways
Pat Cummins will miss a second match due to injury.
Australia has announced an unchanged squad for the day-night Ashes Test.
Veteran opener Usman Khawaja has been included in the squad.
The Test begins on December 4 at the Gabba.
Brendan Doggett is expected to retain his spot in the bowling lineup.
Melbourne, Nov 28 (NationPress) Captain Pat Cummins will be absent for a second straight match as Australia has announced an unaltered 14-member squad for the day-night Ashes Test at the Gabba, set to begin on December 4.
Experienced opener Usman Khawaja has been included after experiencing back spasms that hindered him from batting in the second innings of Perth's series opener.
Cummins missed the initial Test of the series in Perth due to a back injury, as the Australians secured an impressive eight-wicket victory within two days. However, the fast bowler has been granted an additional two weeks to achieve full fitness.
The 32-year-old, currently in the final stages of his recovery from lumbar back stress, will accompany the team to Brisbane.
In Cummins' absence, Brendan Doggett, who took five wickets in Perth, is expected to maintain his position alongside Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland.
Cummins showcased a strong training session at the SCG on Friday, bowling at what seemed like full speed to Steve Smith for over an hour with a pink ball, following a similar session at NSW's Cricket Central headquarters earlier this week, as reported by cricket.com.au.
He was joined by Josh Hazlewood, who also missed the Ashes opener due to a hamstring strain incurred while playing for NSW in the Sheffield Shield a week prior to the first Test, during his net practices this week.
Australia's squad will gather in Brisbane on Sunday, while England arrived in Brisbane on Thursday and will conduct their initial training session at the Gabba on Sunday afternoon, followed by a session under lights on Monday.
Australia squad for second Test: 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, Beau Webster
Point of View
Australia's decision to retain an unchanged squad for the Ashes Test, despite the absence of captain Pat Cummins, reflects both confidence and strategy. The team’s depth will be tested, yet the focus remains on collective performance, showcasing the resilience of the players as they aim to maintain their winning momentum.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Pat Cummins not playing?
Pat Cummins is currently sidelined due to a back injury, which has required additional recovery time.
Who will replace Cummins in the squad?
While Cummins is missing, players like Brendan Doggett, who performed well in the previous test, are expected to retain their positions.
When does the day-night Ashes Test start?
The day-night Ashes Test is scheduled to commence on December 4 at the Gabba.
How did Australia perform in the previous Test?
Australia secured an impressive eight-wicket victory in the opening Test held in Perth.
What is the squad for the second Test?
The Australian squad includes Steve Smith, 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.
