"But arguably the biggest call was to shoulder arms to Khawaja after his return from a back injury. About to turn 39 this week, the left-hander has essentially lost his spot due to Travis Head's impact from the top of the order, and a desire to give Josh Inglis a run as an attacking wildcard at No 7. Cummins said: The big thing that shifted on us is probably Trav opening in that first Test, and how good that's looked with Jake Weatherald."
"The Damascene moment came during the second innings of the eight-wicket victory in Perth, Head stepping up after the injury to Khawaja and blazing 123 from 83 balls to ice a target of 205 runs. Head, having previously been coy about his interest in the role, walked off the field convinced. [Head and Weatherald] really set up the platform for our innings, Cummins said."
Usman Khawaja has been omitted for the third Ashes Test and faces the possible end of his international career after returning from a back injury. Pat Cummins returns as captain following an aggressive rehabilitation and kept Khawaja in the squad while leaving a potential path back. Australia made two changes, bringing back Nathan Lyon while leaving Brendon Doggett and Michael Neser out despite Neser's five-wicket haul in Brisbane. Travis Head's explosive 123 from 83 balls in Perth has cemented his place as an opener alongside Jake Weatherald. Josh Inglis is being trialed as an attacking option at No.7.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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