Usman Khawaja batted for the first time since the Perth Test as he looked to prove his fitness for the day-night match at the Gabba. He had suffered back spasms in the opening Ashes Test, which limited his role.
After doing some physio and light fielding on Sunday, Khawaja ran, stretched, and batted for 30 minutes during Monday’s day session. He faced assistant coach Michael Di Venuto in the nets, with many short deliveries giving his back a good workout. The session was optional, but all players attended. Australia will have another full session under lights on Tuesday.
Khawaja said last week he should be ready for his hometown Test and no longer needs painkillers. He missed opening in Perth due to his back and managed only 2 runs at No. 4 before getting out to Brydon Carse. He also took a catch at first slip on day two but had another spasm while fielding, which allowed Travis Head to score 123 in Australia’s chase.
Khawaja’s form has been under scrutiny, averaging 31.84 since the 2023 Ashes with one century in 45 innings. Head’s strong performance as an opener and his interest in the role has sparked debate about Khawaja’s future in Tests.
Marnus Labuschagne praised Khawaja, calling him a high-quality and consistent player. He said team needs should come first when deciding lineups and whether players should step back.
England pacer Brydon Carse said Australia can decide their batting order, and the team would stick to their plans.
Meanwhile, Pat Cummins continues his recovery from a back injury, bowling two net spells and batting. He is not in the 14-man squad for this match, with a return likely in Adelaide.
