Ashes 2025-26: Will Jacks replaces Mark Wood as England make one change for Gabba Test

England have made one change to their XI from the first Ashes Test in Perth, with spin all-rounder Will Jacks replacing the injured Mark Wood. Jacks has previously played two Test matches for England and famously claimed a maiden five-wicket haul on debut against Pakistan in 2022. The second Test will begin at the Gabba on Thursday, December 4.

The 27-year-old has been selected ahead of fellow off-spinner Shoaib Bashir for the day-night match, partly because his batting ability provides England with additional depth at number eight. Jacks was a surprise inclusion in England’s Ashes squad and now has the chance to earn a third Test cap, despite focusing primarily on white-ball cricket in recent years. He has played only three first-class matches this year, taking five wickets across 74.1 overs.

England team for second Ashes Test:

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.