England are considering a surprise call-up for spinning all-rounder Will Jacks for the crucial day-night second Ashes Test in Brisbane, as they scramble to level a series that is already at risk of slipping from their grasp.
Net Session Audition Under Lights
The injury to fast bowler Mark Wood has forced a rethink in the England camp. The key decision revolves around whether to maintain an all-pace attack, with Josh Tongue the next seamer in line, or to introduce a spin option in the form of Jacks or the young off-spinner Shoaib Bashir.
During a pivotal twilight net session at the Gabba on Monday evening, the scenario was put to the test. In front of a small crowd of spectators, both Jacks and Bashir bowled in tandem to captain Ben Stokes in what appeared to be a direct audition. Jacks, in particular, delivered a lengthy spell, longer than any he has bowled on tour so far, and also spent significant time honing his batting skills.
The Tactical Dilemma for England
Selecting Jacks, who last played Test cricket in Pakistan three years ago, would provide a genuine all-round option at number eight, potentially lengthening England's batting lineup. However, it would also require Stokes to shoulder more overs as the fourth seamer.
England's final choice will heavily depend on their assessment of the Brisbane conditions and the behaviour of the pink Kookaburra ball. There is talk that the pink ball may go softer quicker than the red one, which could lead to more attritional passages of play. After the financially disastrous two-day finish in Perth, ground staff at the Gabba are likely to prepare a pitch that ensures a longer contest.
Australia's formidable record in day-night Tests – 13 wins from 14 matches – presents a daunting challenge. Yet, their sole defeat in the format occurred at the Gabba in January 2024, when the West Indies pulled off a stunning eight-run victory.
Lessons from a Famous Gabba Upset
That West Indies win, spearheaded by Shamar Joseph's pace, also featured a crucial contribution from off-spinning all-rounder Kevin Sinclair. His 64 runs across two innings and the key wicket of Usman Khawaja were instrumental. This recent history may encourage England to opt for the more versatile skills of Jacks.
Alternatively, selecting Josh Tongue, who has returned from a stint with the England Lions in Canberra, would preserve the all-out pace strategy deployed in Perth. Seamer Brydon Carse remains confident the pace attack can replicate their first-innings heroics from Perth, where they skittled Australia for 132.
"We have to take massive confidence from that first day," Carse stated. "As a group of seamers we all offer different skills... hopefully we can continue to trouble some of the Australian batters."
England's selection headache underscores the high stakes as the Ashes series resumes at the Gabba on Thursday, with the tourists desperate to claw their way back into contention.
