Khawaja Ruled Out of Brisbane Test After Failing to Recover From Back Spasms

Usman Khawaja has been ruled out of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba after failing to recover from the back spasms he suffered during the opening match in Perth, casting doubt over his international future.

Khawaja attempted a return to batting with a brief 30-minute net session on Tuesday but was unable to prove his fitness.
"Khawaja will remain with the team to continue his rehabilitation. He has not been replaced in the squad," Cricket Australia confirmed.

Head Likely to Continue as Opener

Khawaja’s absence is expected to give Travis Head another opportunity at the top of the order. Head opened in the second innings in Perth and blasted a stunning 123 off 83 balls, immediately sparking discussion over a possible long-term shift for the left-hander.

Scott Boland said the team had hoped Khawaja would recover but understood the decision.
"He hasn't come up unfortunately… I thought he looked pretty good in the nets but he must've thought himself that he wasn't ready to go."

Head has expressed willingness to take on the role permanently, though debate continues over whether he is more valuable at No. 5. Head coach Andrew McDonald has also suggested flexible batting orders as a possibility.

Josh Inglis and Beau Webster remain the other batting options in the squad. Inglis, who scored a century on Test debut earlier this year, recently hit another hundred for England Lions, while Webster has made four fifties in his first seven Tests and offers part-time bowling.

Depth Tested, Future Uncertain

Boland admitted Khawaja’s injury disrupts Australia’s plans but praised the squad’s depth.
"I think the best thing about our team… is that when someone comes out due to form or injury, someone's always stood up," he said. "Trav did that last week… we’ve got huge depth."

Khawaja has two weeks to recover before the third Test in Adelaide on December 17, but questions about his long-term place persist. His form has dipped significantly — averaging 31.84 since the end of the 2023 Ashes with just one century in 45 innings. Combined with Head’s strong showing as an opener, pressure on Khawaja’s spot has intensified.

Injury Origin and Aftermath

Khawaja suffered the spasms on the opening day in Perth. Because he had spent time off the field, he could not open the batting and came in at No. 4, making only 2 before gloving Brydon Carse behind. The issue resurfaced on day two while fielding at first slip, where he took a catch but then dropped another chance and aggravated the injury while leaping for a further edge.

With Australia already forced to adjust their lineup due to multiple injuries, Khawaja’s setback adds another layer of uncertainty as they look to build on their series lead.