Australia relies on David Warner's fitness for the second ash test in Adelaide

Australia have assisted David Warner in recovering from a rib injury in time to face England in Thursday's second ash test. The opener has served bruised ribs since he was hit twice in his first 94 innings at the gabba before failing in Australia's easy chase of 20.

This raised questions about his availability to Adelaide after the left-handed player also stayed off the field during England's second inning. Australia have an under-light training session at the Adelaide Oval on Tuesday night that will likely be the biggest clue as to whether he'll play.

“I flew home with him a few days ago. His family moved to Adelaide which was nice, ”said Travis Head. “And he felt in a good place. Obviously he was a bit sore, we didn't take any chances as he only needed 20.

“He wanted to hit, but in the end our bowlers did a fantastic job giving him a day off. So I think it was just quiet for him. I think he's ready to go. So no problems for David. "

Should Warner fail, Australia has a ready-made replacement with Usman Khawaja ready to fill in at the top of the order. That could effectively lead to a shootout between him and Marcus Harris for the Boxing Day Test, with Harris' spot far from being determined.

Bryce Street would also form as a back-up option at the top should it further struggle after scoring a century for Australia A against the England Lions last week.

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Warner's situation comes as Australian voters continue to consider replacing Josh Hazlewood. Jhye Richardson remains the favorite after a hot start at the Sheffield Shield, with his extra pace seen as a factor in daytime sessions when the ball doesn't move as much.

He also claimed five wickets averaging nine in his only other day-night test, when he debuted against Sri Lanka at the gabba three summers ago. Neser's debut, meanwhile, was a long time coming, and his ability to swing the ball would only be enhanced with the pink ball under light.

"Jhye has a little bit more ball speed and this raw talent," said Head. “We saw that break games are open. Nes is probably a bit like Josh's shape, it's relentless pressure, can make the ball move. The pink ball that goes with your bowling is both very, very good. "