The second Test of the Ashes series between Australia and England will be played at the Gabba, and it will be a day–night (pink-ball) Test. Ahead of this crucial match, Australia has made a key change: Usman Khawaja has been ruled out, and in his place, Josh Inglis has been added to the squad.

The player who repeated 10-year-old history

Josh Inglis made his Test debut in January 2025 during Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka. In his very first match at Galle, he smashed a brilliant century on debut, an achievement that revived a decade-old milestone.

With this innings, Inglis became:

• Only the second Australian since Adam Voges (2015) to score a hundred on Test debut.

His debut instantly made him one of the most discussed newcomers in Australian cricket.

Return to Test cricket after six months

Inglis last played a Test in June 2025. Six months later, he is back in the spotlight as Australia drafts him in for the Gabba Test.

Although he has been selected as Khawaja’s replacement, Inglis is expected to slot into the middle order, not the opening role.

Steve Smith — Australia’s stand-in captain — has himself confirmed Inglis’ inclusion for the second Test.

Josh Inglis' Test record so far

Inglis has represented Australia in three Tests, scoring:

• 119 runs
• 1 century
• Average: 29.75

His debut ton remains the highlight of his short Test career so far.

Whether he can make an immediate impact in the pink-ball Test will be one of the big storylines of the match.

Why Usman Khawaja is missing

Khawaja has been sidelined due to a back injury, ruling him out of the second Test. Cricket Australia has confirmed that although he won’t play, he will stay with the team and continue his rehabilitation.