Australia delayed Pat Cummins’ comeback and confirmed an unchanged squad for the day-night Ashes Test starting December 4 at Brisbane.
Team management granted Cummins two more weeks of recovery as he continues rehabilitation from lumbar stress, with steady progress shown.
The experienced pacer missed the Perth Test due to persistent back pain that restricted his match readiness despite optimistic training signs.
Australia secured an eight-wicket victory in Perth, prompting selectors to maintain squad consistency for the high-stakes Gabba encounter.
Usman Khawaja kept his position after battling back spasms that prevented him from batting during Perth’s second innings phase. Brendan Doggett strengthened his claim with five wickets in Perth, increasing confidence in Australia’s depth and strategic bowling options.
Selectors expect Doggett to partner Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland again as stability remains crucial for rhythm and cohesion.
Cummins bowled strongly at the SCG on Friday, delivering lengthy spells with a pink ball during purposeful training sessions. He previously completed a similar workload at Cricket Central, showcasing improving strength, though not enough for immediate selection clearance.
Josh Hazlewood joined Cummins in Sydney nets after overcoming a recent hamstring strain suffered during the Sheffield Shield competition.
Australia will assemble in Brisbane on Sunday and begin structured preparations for the crucial second Test under Gabba conditions.
England arrived earlier on Thursday and scheduled their first Gabba training session for Sunday afternoon before lights practice 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.
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