Australia approach the second Test with renewed confidence after their strong showing in Perth. Mitchell Starc’s exceptional ten-wicket performance and Scott Boland’s consistency compensated for the absence of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, who will miss the Brisbane Test as well. Usman Khawaja’s fitness remains uncertain; if he is ruled out, Beau Webster may enter the XI, potentially keeping Travis Head as a temporary opener. 

England, on the other hand, are left to lament the opportunities they failed to capitalize on in the series opener. Their bowlers struggled to maintain intensity in the second innings, drawing criticism for a notable drop in pace. With Mark Wood injured, the visitors must make at least one change, with Josh Tongue offering a lively option through extra bounce. They are likely to retain their primary batting group but could consider adding Will Jacks to reinforce the middle order and provide off-spin, despite the risk of leaving the pace unit thinner.

The first Test itself was a dramatic, fast-paced contest that ended inside two days. The Perth surface drew scrutiny for its spice, yet Travis Head’s second-innings fluency showed that scoring was possible, even if difficult.

Pitch report

Brisbane’s afternoons are expected to be warm and humid, while cooler evenings may add extra zip to the surface. The pitch should offer good pace and carry, posing problems during the twilight and night sessions, especially when the new ball is used.

Playing XI

England

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes(c), Jamie Smith(wk), Will Jacks/Josh Tongue, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse

Australia

Usman Khawaja/Beau Webster, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith(c), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey(wk), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett/Michael Neser

Weather forecast

Rain isn’t expected for most of the match, though light showers may appear on the final day.

When and where to watch

Viewers can watch Gabba Test live on the Star Sports Network or stream it via JioHotstar (09: 30 AM IST).

Excitement is reaching its zenith for the pink-ball battle at Brisbane. (With inputs from Agencies)