Will Josh Inglis Replace Khawaja in Australia’s XI for the Brisbane Test?
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Synopsis
In a crucial shift for the Australian team, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis is set to replace the injured Usman Khawaja for the upcoming Brisbane Test. This opportunity marks Inglis's debut in Test cricket. Will he rise to the occasion? Stay tuned as we delve into this exciting development.
Key Takeaways
- Josh Inglis is set to make his Test debut.
- He replaces the injured Usman Khawaja.
- The team dynamics will shift as Travis Head moves to an opening position.
- Final decisions on the playing XI will be made after pitch assessment.
- Khawaja's injury raises questions about his future with the team.
Brisbane, Dec 3 (NationPress) Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis is set to step in for the injured Usman Khawaja and is on the verge of making his debut Test appearance in Australia when the day-night Test kicks off at the Gabba on Thursday.
Inglis is anticipated to fit into the middle order, effectively taking the spot left by Travis Head, who will move up to an opening position alongside Jake Weatherald, as reported by the Sydney Morning Herald.
Acting captain Steve Smith mentioned that the final playing XI will be confirmed after the team assesses the pitch on Wednesday afternoon.
“A whole heap of things are on the table. We’ll wait and see what the wicket looks like, and from there we’ll iron out a playing XI,” Smith told reporters in Brisbane.
Inglis, a wicketkeeper and specialist batter, has played three Tests for Australia; two against Sri Lanka and one against the West Indies.
He recorded 102 runs off 94 balls in his debut Test innings in Galle this year, making him the first Australian to hit a century on debut since Adam Voges in 2015.
Commenting on the potential inclusion of Inglis, Smith revealed that selectors are yet to finalize their decision.
"It's going to depend on how we match up. We will know later this afternoon once we see the wicket. He's a pretty attacking batsman. Did pretty well in his debut in Sri Lanka and has shown good form. He handles fast bowling well, so if he gets his opportunity, I’m confident he’ll excel for us," Smith stated on The New Ball on SEN.
Khawaja joins Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood on the list of injured Australians during the ongoing Ashes series. He tried to train for 30 minutes on Tuesday but felt discomfort during his net session.
However, Cricket Australia confirmed on Tuesday that Khawaja has been ruled out of the Gabba Test, prompting the team to seek a new opening pair for Thursday's match.
Smith also acknowledged Khawaja's absence and discussed his future within the Test setup. "He obviously wasn't fit to play this one. He's doing everything right to recover quickly. He has been a quality player for a long time; anyone with over 80 Tests under their belt is a good cricketer.
"We'll focus on this game, see how it unfolds, and I'm sure this will be a matter for the selectors moving forward. I’ve played with Usman for a long time, and he has performed consistently for Australia," he added.
Australia squad (second Test only): Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster
Point of View
My perspective aligns with the nation’s interest in cricket. The inclusion of Josh Inglis not only highlights the depth of talent within Australian cricket but also raises questions about team dynamics and adaptability. His performance could set a precedent for future selections, making this a significant moment in the ongoing Ashes series.
NationPress
03/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is replacing Usman Khawaja?
Josh Inglis is set to replace Usman Khawaja in Australia's XI for the Brisbane Test.
When does the Brisbane Test start?
The day-night Test at the Gabba is scheduled to begin on Thursday.
What is Josh Inglis's cricketing background?
Josh Inglis has played three Tests for Australia, scoring a century in his debut innings.
Why is Usman Khawaja not playing?
Usman Khawaja is sidelined due to injury and was unable to train effectively.
What are the implications of Khawaja's absence?
Khawaja's absence will require the team to adjust its opening pair for the match.
