Khawaja Exits Sheffield Clash Against SA; Labuschagne Takes Helm for Queensland
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Synopsis
On March 13, Usman Khawaja has opted out of the Sheffield Shield match against South Australia, prioritizing freshness for the WTC final. Marnus Labuschagne will lead Queensland in this crucial game, as they aim for a final spot.
Key Takeaways
- Khawaja withdraws from Sheffield Shield match.
- Marnus Labuschagne steps in as captain.
- Queensland needs a win to reach the final.
- Khawaja focuses on the WTC final against South Africa.
- Queensland squad includes key players like Neser and Renshaw.
Adelaide, March 13 (NationPress) Australia Test opener Usman Khawaja has chosen to withdraw from Queensland's forthcoming Sheffield Shield match against South Australia, where securing a victory would guarantee their place in the final.
Khawaja was not included in Queensland's 14-man roster after he indicated a preference to participate in only one of the two Shield matches following his return from Sri Lanka.
Queensland has revealed the squad for this crucial Sheffield Shield encounter against South Australia in Adelaide, with captain Marnus Labuschagne rejoining the team after Australia’s Champions Trophy campaign to take Khawaja’s place.
As reported by Yahoo Sport Australia, Khawaja's choice to skip this weekend's Sheffield Shield match against South Australia stems from his desire to remain fresh for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa in June.
The 38-year-old is poised for a significant year of Test cricket, including the WTC final in June, a tour of the West Indies in July, and a home Ashes series next summer.
Recently, Khawaja has displayed exceptional form, scoring 127 and 33 not out in the Bulls' nine-wicket victory over Tasmania last week. He also achieved a remarkable double century during his stint in Sri Lanka last month, positioning himself as a vital asset for the Queensland team in their pursuit of the Shield title.
The Queensland vs SA match kicks off on Saturday, with the squad heading to Adelaide early for an additional day of training after their facilities in Brisbane were unavailable due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Queensland is coming off a nine-wicket triumph over Tasmania last week, featuring Khawaja's century and an eight-wicket haul by pace spearhead Michael Neser.
Queensland squad vs South Australia: Marnus Labuschagne (c), Jack Clayton, Lachlan Hearne, Angus Lovell, Ben McDermott, Michael Neser, Jimmy Peirson, Matthew Renshaw, Jackson Sinfield, Mark Steketee, Tom Straker, Mitchell Swepson, Callum Vidler, Jack Wildermuth.
