Cricket

Usman Khawaja’s Test future hangs in the balance after being ruled out of the second Ashes Test.

LISA STHALEKAR: There’s been a lot of noise about Usman Khawaja, but another veteran’s future is also being questioned heading into the second Test at the Gabba.

The first cracks are beginning to appear in England’s Bazball bravado, with the only batter to make runs in Perth making a raw admission days out from the Gabba Test.

The 55-year-old has been axed for a second time despite attempting to argue his case.

Marnus Labuschagne says no player deserves a fairytale farewell as pressure mounts on selector’s to axe the struggling opener.

Test opener Jake Weatherald has outlined the difference in mentality between Australia and England ahead of the pink-ball challenge in the second Test at the Gabba.

Travis Head has arrived in Brisbane unsure if he will open or bat No.5 for Australia in the second Ashes Test, but is happy to be fluid between the roles.

Joe Root can see that the day-night Test format is popular in Australia but personally doesn't believe it should be part of the Ashes.

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’.