Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has found himself at the centre of a storm during the Ashes series after being prevented from opening the batting due to spending excessive time off the field receiving treatment for back spasms.
Confusion and Criticism Surround Khawaja's Absence
The initial explanation suggested the 38-year-old batsman had left the field for stretching and toilet breaks, but Australian captain Pat Cummins later revealed Khawaja required treatment for back spasms. This revelation came amid reports the player had completed 18 holes of golf the previous day and skipped an optional team training session.
The situation drew immediate criticism from cricket experts and fans alike. Former Australian cricketer Tom Moody described the episode as 'beyond a joke' during his commentary for ABC, expressing disbelief at what he called 'poor management'.
Team Disruption and Batting Collapse
Khawaja's absence forced an unexpected batting lineup change, with debutant opener Jake Weatherald partnering Marnus Labuschagne, who possesses minimal experience in the position. The disruption proved costly as Weatherald fell for a duck to England's Jofra Archer, and when Khawaja eventually batted lower down the order, he managed just two runs before being dismissed by Brydon Carse.
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting highlighted the psychological impact on Seven Network, noting: 'Jake Weatherald would have been forging a relationship with Usman all week to build up and face his first ball in Test cricket. That was all taken away.'
Fan Backlash and Age Concerns
Australian supporters expressed their fury on social media platforms, with one describing Khawaja as 'the most selfish cricketer in the game'. Another commented: 'If it took fielding in the slips for a couple of hours to send his back into spasms, he's done. Retire now.'
The incident has amplified pre-existing concerns about Australia's ageing team composition, particularly given Khawaja's 38 years. Many supporters questioned the wisdom of his golf outing so close to a crucial Test match, despite Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg defending the practice.
Greenberg told SEN radio that playing golf before matches has 'held him in good stead over the last couple of years', adding that critics were 'drawing a long bow' by connecting the golf directly to the back issues. He noted that Mitchell Starc had also played golf without his performance being affected.
England's players expressed surprise at the unfolding drama, with bowler Brydon Carse admitting they 'didn't really even realise it' had happened, though acknowledging it was 'probably more unsettling for the Aussies'.
The controversy has cast a shadow over Australia's first innings in Perth, raising questions about player management and preparation protocols ahead of the remainder of the Ashes series.
