Australia Squad for 2nd Ashes Test 2025 | No Pat Cummins & Hazlewood Return at The Gabba.

The buildup to the second Ashes Test at The Gabba has taken an interesting turn as Australia officially announced their squad, confirming that Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood will not be returning for the upcoming match. This announcement has sparked fresh discussions among cricket fans and analysts as Australia prepares to extend their lead—or recover momentum—against a competitive England side.

The Ashes remains one of the biggest and most-watched rivalries in world cricket, and squad changes ahead of a crucial Test match always draw attention. This time, Australia’s confirmed injury concerns have placed additional spotlight on the team’s depth and tactical approach.

Why Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood Are Missing

Pat Cummins, Australia's premier fast bowler and one of the world’s most lethal seamers, continues to recover from a minor fitness issue sustained earlier in the series. Despite earlier optimism about his potential return, Cricket Australia’s medical team has opted to extend his rest.

Similarly, Josh Hazlewood—another core member of Australia’s pace battery—has not fully recovered in time. Hazlewood has been undergoing rehabilitation, and the selectors have chosen a cautious approach to avoid risking further injury.

Their absence means Australia will once again depend heavily on their backup pacers, creating an opportunity for fringe bowlers to prove themselves on one of the most iconic and bowler-friendly Test venues in world cricket.

The Gabba Advantage: What It Means for Australia

The Gabba in Brisbane has historically been a fortress for Australia. Its lively bounce, seam movement, and fast outfield have always complemented Australian pacers perfectly. Even without Cummins and Hazlewood, the venue naturally offers assistance to quick bowlers who can hit the right lengths.

This puts added responsibility on the remaining pace attack, who will be expected to replicate the success of Australia’s frontline bowlers.

🇦🇺 Australia's 2nd Ashes Test Squad (Gabba, December 4–8, 2025)

• Steve Smith (captain) 

• Scott Boland 

• Alex Carey 

• Brendan Doggett 

• Cameron Green 

• Travis Head 

• Josh Inglis 

• Usman Khawaja 

• Marnus Labuschagne 

• Nathan Lyon (spinner) 

• Michael Neser 

• Mitchell Starc 

• Jake Weatherald 

• Beau Webster 

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Australia’s Strengths Despite Missing Two Star Bowlers

Even without Cummins and Hazlewood, Australia enter the match with several competitive advantages.

 Exceptional Bench Strength

Australia is known for producing world-class fast bowlers. Even second-line pacers are capable of delivering match-winning spells in home conditions.

 Stable and In-Form Batting Unit

Australia’s top and middle-order batters have shown consistency, providing strong platforms in recent Tests.

 The Gabba Advantage

England have historically struggled at this venue due to the extra bounce and pace.

 Tactical Flexibility

Australia’s coaching staff often adapt quickly to conditions, ensuring that the team remains competitive despite injuries.

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 What This Means for England

England will view the absence of Cummins and Hazlewood as their biggest opportunity to challenge Australia early in the series.

England’s key opportunities:

• Attack the replacement bowlers

• Put pressure on Australia’s middle order

• Utilize aggressive batting to disrupt the rhythm of new pacers

However, adapting to the Gabba conditions remains a massive challenge for visiting teams.

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Match Expectations: High Drama Ahead at The Gabba

The second Ashes Test promises high-intensity cricket as both teams attempt to seize control of the series.

What to expect:

• Fierce battles between bat and ball

• Strategic use of backup pacers

• England’s attempt to break Australia’s stronghold at The Gabba

• Tactical selections influencing session-by-session momentum

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Conclusion

Australia’s squad announcement for the second Ashes Test has added fresh dynamics to the series. The absence of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood is significant, but Australia’s proven depth, home advantage, and stable batting make them formidable competitors.

England, however, will sense a rare opportunity — and this sets the stage for a thrilling, high-stakes Test match at The Gabba.

Cricket fans around the world are preparing for yet another iconic Ashes showdown.