Khawaja's Injury Crisis Rocks Australian Camp
The first Ashes Test in Perth has been thrown into disarray after veteran batsman Usman Khawaja was ruled out of opening the batting in Australia's second innings due to a recurring back injury. The 38-year-old's controversial fitness issues have sparked intense criticism from fans and cricket experts alike, raising serious questions about Australia's team management and selection policies.
Golf Outing Fuels Controversy
The situation escalated when it emerged that Khawaja had played 18 holes of golf on Thursday, just before the Test match began. Adding to the controversy, the experienced batsman skipped a non-compulsory team training session, decisions that have seen him branded as 'selfish' by disappointed Australian supporters. The timing of his golf outing, followed immediately by back problems, has drawn sharp criticism across social media platforms and cricket commentary circles.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg moved to defend Khawaja's actions, telling SEN radio: "It (playing golf before a Test) has held him in good stead over the last couple of years. It's not uncommon for a lot of them to play golf a day prior." Greenberg emphasised that Khawaja was a "seasoned campaigner" who understood his body well, though many fans remained unconvinced by this explanation.
Match Impact and Team Consequences
Khawaja's absence had immediate consequences for the Australian team. During England's second innings, where they struggled at 6-104, the veteran grimaced his way off the field for treatment after dropping a crucial catch at slip. His earlier absence in the first innings had forced debutant opener Jake Weatherald to partner with Marnus Labuschagne, who has minimal experience in the position. The partnership proved disastrous, with Weatherald falling for a duck to Jofra Archer, while Khawaja managed only two runs upon his return.
Former Test captain Ricky Ponting expressed concern about the situation, telling Channel Seven: "They've obviously been caught off-guard, which is the last thing that Marnus wanted, the last thing that Jake wanted." The confusion surrounding Khawaja's availability created significant disruption to Australia's batting plans.
Ageing Squad Concerns Mount
Khawaja wasn't the only senior player struggling with fitness issues on day two. Spinner Nathan Lyon also required treatment after being struck on the hip by a Mark Wood delivery. The veteran bowler didn't send down a single delivery as England were eventually dismissed for 164, though his absence proved costly as Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse built an aggressive partnership of 50 from just 34 balls.
The incidents have amplified pre-existing concerns about Australia's ageing team composition. Social media reactions reflected growing frustration among supporters, with one fan writing: "If it took fielding in the slips for a couple of hours to send his back into spasms, he's done. Retire now." Another commented: "Better rest him for the remainder of the series, I reckon," highlighting the divided opinions about Khawaja's future in the team.
As the Ashes series continues, the Australian selectors face mounting pressure to address these fitness concerns, particularly with younger players like Mitch Marsh and Josh Inglis waiting in the wings. The Khawaja controversy has undoubtedly cast a shadow over Australia's preparations for the remainder of the crucial Test series.
