Is Khawaja Fit Enough for the Gabba Test?
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Synopsis
As the clock ticks down to the second Ashes Test at the Gabba, Usman Khawaja's fitness remains in question. Will he make it to the pitch for his home Ashes match? Discover the latest updates on Khawaja's condition and what it means for Australia's squad dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- Usman Khawaja is not fully fit ahead of the Gabba Test.
- Medical staff are closely monitoring his progress.
- He has been a key player for Australia since his return.
- Backup options are ready if he cannot play.
- Pat Cummins is recovering and may return for the next Test.
New Delhi, Dec 1 (NationPress) Australia's opener Usman Khawaja is still not at full fitness just three days ahead of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba, but he is determined to participate in his home Ashes match.
The batsman underwent a fitness evaluation for the first time following a back injury sustained last week. During a fitness test on Monday afternoon, he was carefully observed by medical staff in a nearby net, as reported by cricket.com.au.
Khawaja suffered from back spasms during the Ashes opener and had to exit the field late in England's initial innings. He was also unable to bat during Australia's second innings of the Test held in Perth.
After engaging in light running drills on the Gabba outfield, Khawaja appeared at times to be uncomfortable during a 30-minute net session with the pink ball. He only faced throw-downs from assistant coach Michael Di Venuto, focusing on pull shots on basic practice wickets.
The medical team convened with coach Andrew McDonald and selector George Bailey after Khawaja's running activities, which included 40-metre sprints and lateral movements.
Australia will assess Khawaja's condition after his batting session to determine if he can train fully in the primary session on Tuesday and possibly Wednesday. A decision will then be made regarding his participation in the Gabba Test.
Khawaja has been Australia's leading Test run-scorer since his return to the team four years ago and is the only player in the squad who has played in all three previous pink-ball Tests at the Gabba.
Beau Webster and Josh Inglis are the backup batting options in Australia's 14-man squad and will vie for a spot should Khawaja not be deemed fit or be dropped from the lineup.
In other news, captain Pat Cummins bowled two quick spells in the nets and also batted on both Sunday evening and the following afternoon.
Although Cummins missed the opening Test in Perth due to a back injury, his chances of returning for the third Test in Adelaide appear to be increasing.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain unbiased while reporting on Khawaja's fitness situation. His potential absence could significantly impact Australia's strategy and morale. We at NationPress prioritize providing our audience with accurate updates as the team navigates these challenges.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury does Usman Khawaja have?
Usman Khawaja is dealing with back spasms, which he sustained during the first Test of the Ashes series.
When is the second Ashes Test scheduled?
The second Ashes Test is set to take place at the Gabba in just three days.
Who are the backup batting options for Australia?
Beau Webster and Josh Inglis are the reserve batting options in Australia's squad.
How has Khawaja performed since returning to the team?
Khawaja has been Australia's top Test run-scorer since his return to the national team four years ago.
Will Pat Cummins play in the second Test?
Pat Cummins is not included in the squad for the second Test but is expected to return for the third Test in Adelaide.
