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Cricket News: Will Usman Khawaja play in the 2nd Test vs West Indies? | Usman Khawaja injury update following being struck on jaw
Australia opener Usman Khawaja will be continuously evaluated after he was given the all-clear of a fractured jaw subsequent to his team’s seamless, ten-wicket victory in the first Test against West Indies. With just one run needed to wrap up the easy 26-run chase, Khawaja was impacted on the jaw by a Shamar Joseph bouncer as he endeavored to avoid it.
The experienced player had blood coming from his mouth, but fortunately he has been cleared of structural damage. Nevertheless, Khawaja will be monitored for any delayed concussion symptoms after passing an initial test. Should the opener develop any, he is likely to miss the second Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting Thursday, January 25.
Matt Renshaw poised to step in if Usman Khawaja is excluded from the 2nd Test against West Indies
Khawaja took to social media to provide an update. He was his usual, humorous self. “Thanks for all the well wishes, I’m fine, just wanted Marnus to have a hit!” he wrote.
Fellow left-hander Matt Renshaw was chosen as the alternative opener after Steve Smith was selected as David Warner’s replacement. If Khawaja is ruled out, Renshaw will step in for what will be his first Test as Australian opener since 2018.
Renshaw has been in decent red-ball form in the past two seasons. Earlier this summer, he scored a patient 136* off 337 in the tour match against Pakistan in Canberra. However, his Sheffield Shield average of 31.63 in six matches this season is something the selectors will hope he improves on if he does take the field for the second Test.
In terms of the series, Australia look superior to the inexperienced West Indies. They completed the ten-wicket win shortly before lunch on the third day after dismissing the tourists for just 120 in the second innings.
Josh Hazlewood secured 5/35 to follow his 4/41 in the first innings. Previously, man of the match Travis Head’s 119 helped Australia to a healthy lead of 95 on a challenging Adelaide pitch.
The second Test will be a day/night fixture in Brisbane. It will take place over the Australia Day long weekend, so there should be substantial crowds once again after an outstanding turnout in Adelaide.
