Australia Retains Unchanged Squad for Second Ashes Test

Australia has named an unchanged 14-man squad for the second Ashes Test against England, set to begin on December 4 at the Gabba in Brisbane, as the hosts aim to extend their 1-0 series lead following a dominant two-day victory in Perth. Captain Pat Cummins remains sidelined by a lingering back injury, despite recent training efforts, while Josh Hazlewood continues to recover from a hamstring strain, leaving Steve Smith to lead the side once more.

The decision to retain the same group underscores Australia's confidence in the lineup that secured an eight-wicket win in the series opener at Optus Stadium. There, England collapsed twice, first bowled out for 172 after winning the toss and electing to field, then folding for 164 in their second innings after Australia posted 213. Mitchell Starc claimed 10 wickets across the match, and Travis Head's blistering 69-ball century propelled Australia to chase down 205 in just 28.2 overs, sealing the result on the second day.

Cummins, who has not played since July due to the back issue, bowled at near full pace with the pink ball during a net session in Sydney on Friday, facing Smith for over an hour. However, selectors opted against...