Ashes 2025-26: England unleash dangerous player for Gabba Test against Australia

England make one change for the Gabba Test, bringing in Will Jacks for the injured Mark Wood.

Jacks gets the nod ahead of Shoaib Bashir due to his batting depth at No. 8 and suitability for day-night conditions.

Mark Wood Injury update

Mark Wood experienced left-knee soreness after his comeback Test in Perth, prompting his replacement.

Jacks, who mainly plays white-ball cricket now, has featured in just three first-class games this year, taking five wickets.

Shoaib Bashir misses out despite being England’s preferred spinner since 2024 and fully fit for selection.

England aim to level the series and chase their first Gabba win since 1986, with Jacks getting a chance to cement his Test spot.

England Playing XI for 2nd Ashes

Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wk), Gus Atkinson, Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir.

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