Khawaja had already missed the first Test in Perth, and while he was seen batting in the nets at the Gabba on Tuesday for nearly 30 minutes, he remains far from fully recovered.
With the 38-year-old opener unavailable, Josh Inglis and Beau Webster are under consideration to join Australia’s final XI for the second Test. Notably, the Australian management has yet to name an official replacement.
Australia’s squad for the 2nd Ashes Test:
Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.
The absence of Khawaja leaves Australia in a strategic dilemma. Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne have previously taken on makeshift opening duties, but the team may also explore other options. Head coach Andrew McDonald suggested a hybrid approach to the batting lineup, emphasizing that final decisions will depend on pitch and match conditions.
Both Inglis and Webster offer flexibility, capable of slotting into the top or middle order, giving Australia multiple options to restructure their lineup innovatively.
The second Ashes Test will begin at the Gabba, Brisbane, on December 4, with Australia eager to bounce back after Khawaja’s injury setback.
