Australia’s opening Check of the Ashes produced an uncommon subplot round senior batter Usman Khawaja, whose again spasms on day one triggered a reshuffle that carried into the second innings — and later prompted clarification from Cricket Australia. Khawaja, 38, spent a prolonged interval off the sphere throughout England’s first innings on day one, leaving him wanting the minimal on-field time required beneath ICC guidelines to open Australia’s reply. Regardless of returning shortly earlier than England have been bowled out, the window was too small for him to regain eligibility. That compelled Marnus Labuschagne to open with debutant Jake Weatherald, whereas stand-in captain Steve Smith walked in at No. 3. Weatherald lasted solely two balls, and Khawaja — nonetheless ineligible — remained within the dressing room as Australia slipped early. He lastly got here in at No. 4 after Labuschagne’s dismissal however managed solely two runs earlier than falling. The state of affairs positioned scrutiny on Khawaja’s preparation after photos of him taking part in golf within the lead-up to the Check circulated on-line. Cricket Australia chief government Todd Greenberg rejected any hyperlink between that session and the spasms. “It (taking part in golf) has held him in good stead over the past couple of years. It is not unusual for lots of them to play golf a day prior,” Greenberg advised SEN Radio. “Did that correlate to any of the problems? I personally do not suppose so. Usman’s a really seasoned campaigner… that’s drawing an extended bow.” Greenberg added that the gamers have been trusted to handle their very own routines, saying, “The person efficiency inside a staff atmosphere, after which in the end you’re held accountable to your efficiency.”
Ballot
Ought to gamers like Khawaja be criticized for leisure actions earlier than a match?
By day two, Khawaja’s again had eased sufficient for him to discipline with out hassle. However he didn’t open once more as Australia chased 205 for victory. As an alternative, Travis Head took the position and produced a defining innings, smashing 123 off 83 balls to safe an eight-wicket win. With Smith and Labuschagne ending the chase unbeaten, Khawaja didn’t bat within the second innings in any respect, leaving his place and preparation a speaking level as Australia transfer deeper into the five-match collection.
