Cricket

MITCHELL JOHNSON: If the first Test was a blockbuster, the Gabba sequel could be just as wild and potentially over in two days again if the rain stays away after Ben Stokes’ pointed comments.

The skipper can cop being called rubbish, but one word went ‘too far’.

Usman Khawaja has revealed he was set to have an epidural in order to bat on the third day in Perth, but says painkillers won't be needed to play at the Gabba.

JUSTIN LANGER: It’s hard to tell from the outside, but England sticking to their guns is not that crazy and why can’t a bloke play golf?

Australia captain Pat Cummins has remained outside Australia’s squad for the second Test of The Ashes, while veteran opener Usman Khawaja has been retained amid his battle with a back problem.

Pat Cummins won't return from a back injury for Australia at the Gabba, with selectors opting to stick with the same squad that won in Perth.

The English great gave as good as he got on The Front Bar as he lifted the lid on some of the most controversial Ashes moments he has been at the centre of, and how David Warner became his ‘bunny’.

Pat Cummins is set to be named in Australia’s squad for the second Test of the Ashes, giving Australia another huge boost after their series-opening win in Perth.

He’s the man who England’s Bazball approach is named after, but Brendon McCullum is set to lose his job as coach if the Poms suffer a heavy series defeat, according to Aussie cricket great Ian Healy.

MITCHELL JOHNSON: Ben Stokes, and England, need to get some runs on the board — and maybe a Test win — before sledging their own greats as their hubris was clearly their undoing in the first Test.

The Optus Stadium pitch played no part in Perth’s Test match lasting just two days, according to the ICC, with the deck given the highest-possible rating by the match referee.

‘If I hear it once more, I think I’ll throw something at the television.’

One of Australia’s greatest Ashes foes has credited a stint he spent playing in the country as a teenager as hugely formative for the legendary career he would go on to forge.

Under-fire veteran Usman Khawaja still has what it takes in the Ashes, according to the man most likely to benefit from his demise.

DANE ELDRIDGE: There is nothing a Kiwi hates more than admitting an Australian is right, but Brendon McCullum’s refusal to see the writing on the wall is beyond the pale.