AUS vs ENG: Australia squad announced for the Ashes 2nd Test against England

Australia have named an unchanged squad for the second Test of the 2025–26 Ashes series, which begins on December 4 at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane. The decision reflects the confidence team management has in the lineup that delivered a commanding performance in the Perth opener. With a dominant eight-wicket victory already in the bag, the hosts hold a 1-0 lead in the five-match series and will look to build on their momentum in familiar home conditions. Mitchell Starc was the standout performer in the first Test, producing a brilliant 10-wicket match haul that reaffirmed his status as one of the most lethal pacers in world cricket.

AUS vs ENG: Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood to miss Ashes 2nd Test

Mitchell Starc's lethal pace, swing, and accuracy dismantled England’s batting order and set the tone for Australia’s success. Starc was well supported by Scott Boland, whose consistency added pressure from the other end, and Brendan Doggett, who justified his selection ahead of Michael Neser with a composed display. Travis Head produced a sensational batting display in Perth, hammering 123 off just 83 balls to guide Australia to a swift and commanding victory in the second innings. His explosive knock ensured the target was chased down in under 30 overs, turning what might have been a tense finish into a one-sided triumph. Australia had initially planned to open with Jake Weatherald and Usman Khawaja, but a change in circumstances altered that plan. Khawaja, who battled persistent back spasms throughout the match, was unable to spend the required time on the field, forcing him to move down the order.

As a result, Marnus Labuschagne stepped up to open in the first innings, while Head, riding high on confidence, took on the role in the second and delivered a match-winning century. His adaptability and fearless approach under pressure once again showcased his value to the team. With Australia securing victory well inside two days, the selectors saw no need to alter a successful formula and decided to stick with the same combination for the upcoming Test at the Gabba. The stability reflects their confidence in both the batting order’s flexibility and the squad’s overall balance heading into the next challenge.

Australia has named its squad for the second #Ashes Test at the Gabba. https://t.co/m1JSOnfKI4

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 28, 2025

Pat Cummins has not been named in Australia squad for the AUS vs ENG day-night Brisbane Test, as the selectors continue to take a cautious approach with his recovery. The fast bowler recently underwent an intensive training session at the SCG on November 28, where he bowled to stand-in captain Steven Smith and showed encouraging progress. Cummins will travel with the team to Brisbane to maintain his preparation and remain closely involved with the group.

He is scheduled for another important bowling session on December 1, which will help determine his readiness for competitive action. Although the selectors have left the door open to adding him to the squad should he prove fully fit, the more realistic expectation is that he will return for the third Test in Adelaide. This timeline would allow him additional recovery time and ensure he is physically prepared for the remainder of the Ashes series.

Questions also remain over Nathan Lyon’s place in the Australia playing XI, particularly after he bowled only two overs in the Perth Test and was left out of Australia’s most recent pink-ball match in Jamaica. His limited involvement has sparked debate about whether the selectors will continue with the same bowling combination or bring him back into a more prominent role for the day-night Test at the Gabba.

In addition, Josh Hazlewood is still working his way back from a hamstring injury. He bowled lightly on Friday as part of his rehabilitation, and while he is progressing well, he remains only an outside chance to take part later in the series. His fitness will continue to be monitored closely before any selection call is made. Australia are set to assemble in Brisbane on Sunday as preparations intensify for the second Test, with several strategic decisions still hanging in the balance.

Australia squad for the Ashes 2nd Test

Steve Smith (C), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (WK), Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (WK), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.