Usman Khawaja has been ruled out of the second Ashes Test against England due to a lingering back injury. The 38-year-old veteran opener's place in the Australian team was already under scrutiny after he suffered back spasms during the first Test in Perth. These spasms forced him to leave the field and prevented him from opening the batting in the first innings.
Khawaja underwent light training duties at the Gabba on Monday, which included stretching, shuttle runs, and batting in the nets. However, Cricket Australia confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that he "pulled up sore" and would be unable to participate in the day-night Test in Brisbane, commencing on Thursday.
Australian bowler Scott Boland expressed his disappointment, stating, "He's put in a lot of work since the last game to try and get his body right, but he hasn't come up, unfortunately". Khawaja will remain with the team to begin his rehabilitation, with the aim of being fit for the third Test in Adelaide, scheduled to begin on December 17.
Khawaja's recent form has also added pressure to his position in the team. Since his century in June 2023, he has only managed one more century. In his only innings at Optus Stadium, he scored just two runs.
Travis Head is now expected to partner with recent debutant Jake Weatherald at the top of the order. Australia has opted not to replace Khawaja in the squad. This decision creates a vacancy in the middle order, with all-rounder Beau Webster emerging as a strong contender to fill the spot. Webster has had a promising start to his Test career, averaging 34.63 with the bat and taking eight wickets in his first seven Tests.
According to sources, there was no connection between Khawaja's back problem and his golfing activities leading up to the series opener.
England has made one change to their lineup, with Will Jacks replacing the injured Mark Wood.
With Khawaja's future uncertain, and players like Head and Webster waiting in the wings, the upcoming Test and the rest of the series could be pivotal in shaping the Australian batting order.
