Australia Ashes XI predicted: Cummins shock for second Test vs. England in Brisbane

Kieran Francis

Australia Ashes XI predicted: Cummins shock for second Test vs. England in Brisbane image

Australia is edging closer to naming its starting XI for Thursday's second Ashes Test against England at the Gabba, Brisbane.

In a shock after missing the second Test squad, captain Pat Cummins is set to be selected in the XI if he passes a fitness test on the morning of the first day.

If Cummins is selected, it's likely he will come into the team for either seamer Brendan Doggett or veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, depending on whether Australia wants a front-line spinner.

It has been confirmed Usman Khawaja will miss the Brisbane Test through injury, with Travis Head being promoted to opener and Josh Inglis slotting in to Head's no.5 batting position.

MORE: England star questions playing Ashes pink ball Test

England has made one change to their starting XI with all-rounder Will Jacks replacing Mark Wood, who has a hamstring issue.

Australia Ashes XI predicted - Second Test vs. England in Brisbane

  • Travis Head
  • Jake Weatherald
  • Marnus Labuschagne
  • Steve Smith
  • Josh Inglis
  • Cameron Green
  • Alex Carey (wicketkeeper)
  • Mitchell Starc
  • Nathan Lyon/Pat Cummins
  • Scott Boland
  • Brendan Doggett/Pat Cummins

Note: Cummins has been given until morning of the first day to prove his fitness

England Ashes XI confirmed

  • Zak Crawley
  • Ben Duckett
  • Ollie Pope
  • Joe Root
  • Harry Brook
  • Ben Stokes
  • Jamie Smith
  • Will Jacks
  • Gus Atkinson
  • Brydon Carse
  • Jofra Archer

Test match schedule for the 2025/26 Ashes - Australia vs. England

First Test, Perth Stadium, Perth

November 21-25 - Australia win by eight wickets (AUS 1-0)

Second Test, The Gabba, Brisbane (D/N)

December 4-8

Third Test, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide

December 17-21

Fourth Test, MCG, Melbourne

December 26-30

Fifth Test, SCG, Sydney

January 4-8

Senior Editor