Archive · 1 Dec 2025
Khawaja's Fitness in Doubt for Gabba Test
Usman Khawaja, a key player for Australia, hurt his back during a recent cricket match.
With only a few days left before the next important match at the Gabba, doctors and coaches are closely watching his training to see if he can play.
Khawaja did some practice runs and batting, but he didn't look completely comfortable.
The team will decide if he's ready to play after seeing how he feels the next day.
If he can't play, two other players, Beau Webster and Josh Inglis, might take his place.
Meanwhile, the team's captain, Pat Cummins, who also had a back injury, is practicing hard to possibly return for a later match.
Usman Khawaja's fitness for the Gabba Test is uncertain due to back spasms.
Khawaja completed light running drills and a 30-minute batting stint with the pink ball.
Medical staff and coaches are monitoring his progress to decide if he can play.
If Khawaja is ruled out, Beau Webster and Josh Inglis are the primary contenders to replace him.
Pat Cummins, the captain, is practicing to potentially return for the third Test in Adelaide.
- Who
- Usman Khawaja, Australia's top Test run-scorer
- What
- Khawaja's fitness for the Gabba Test is uncertain
- When
- The second Ashes Test starts on December 4
- Where
- The Gabba, Brisbane
- Why
- Khawaja is recovering from back spasms sustained during the Perth Test
- Player
- Usman Khawaja
- Injury
- Back spasms
- Test Match
- Second Ashes Test at Gabba
- Potential Replacements
- Beau Webster, Josh Inglis
- Coach
- Andrew McDonald
- Selector
- George Bailey
- Captain
- Pat Cummins
- Assistant Coach
- Michael Di Venuto