Usman Khawaja fitness update took to the nets for the first time since the Perth Test, signaling his determination to prove fitness for the upcoming day-night encounter at the Gabba. The Australian batsman had missed part of the opening Ashes match due to back spasms, which forced him out of his opening role and limited his time at the crease.
After undergoing physiotherapy and gentle fielding exercises on Sunday, Khawaja participated in a controlled training session on Monday. Under the supervision of Australia’s medical staff, he engaged in running, stretching, and batting drills for 30 minutes. During this session, he faced assistant coach Michael Di Venuto in the nets, mostly dealing with shorter deliveries to ease his back into activity while still providing a robust workout. While the session was optional, all players were present, preparing for a full day-night practice under lights on Tuesday.
Khawaja had previously expressed confidence about his fitness, stating he no longer required painkillers after initially suffering back spasms at Perth Stadium. His brief appearance in the first Test saw him dismissed cheaply at No. 4 after England’s swift collapse prevented him from opening. Despite limited on-field time, Khawaja contributed in the field, taking a catch at first slip but also experiencing a back spasm while attempting another, opening the door for Travis Head to score 123 in Australia’s chase.
The ongoing debate around Khawaja’s form has intensified, with the opener averaging 31.84 since the end of the 2023 Ashes and recording just one century in 45 innings. Travis Head’s strong performances at the top of the order and public statements about opening have fueled speculation about whether Khawaja should step away from Test cricket.
Marnus Labuschagne defended Khawaja, praising his consistency and adaptability across batting positions. “Usman is a high-quality player with 85 Tests under his belt,” Labuschagne said. “Whatever happens is up to the selectors, but he has been a rock for Australia in challenging scenarios.”
Khawaja has not publicly set a retirement timeline, though the final Ashes Test at the SCG has been suggested as a fitting conclusion, reflecting his memorable twin centuries during the 2020-21 series.
Meanwhile, Pat Cummins continues recovery from his back injury, participating in net sessions but remaining outside the 14-man squad, with a potential return in Adelaide. England’s Brydon Carse also commented on Head’s remarkable knock and noted that the opposition will adjust strategies accordingly, regardless of who opens for Australia.
Usman Khawaja fitness update and performance in the nets could be crucial in determining Australia’s top-order strategy for the high-stakes day-night clash at the Gabba.
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