Usman Khawaja should still retain his spot and be given every chance to keep his incumbent opener role, should he be passed fit by the Australian team physios heading into the second Ashes Test in Perth starting on Thursday.
The veteran failed to open the batting in Perth despite being named to do so, with Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head replacing him at the top of the order after he was sidelined with back spasms mid-match.
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Khawaja, 38, won’t be dropped over the injury if he can prove he’s ready, though, reports close to the team have been saying. And, considering his time in the nets today, it’s looking more and more likely he’ll face the first ball Thursday.
During the Monday nets session, the evergreen star faced several throw-downs from assistant coach Michael Di Venuto, including a barrage of short balls. Khawaja moved well against them, those at the nets said, though did struggle to step out quickly in several attacking shots. Despite that, Khawaja also reportedly shot a thumbs-up at physiotherapist Nick Jones.
The final call, it’s been suggested, will be made during Australia’s Tuesday night training.
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Whether Khawaja is ready or not, we already know two players who won’t be opening: Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith. The former said as much on Monday, saying that “we can pretty much be assured Steve and I won’t open.” They will retain spots at three and four, The Sporting Base understands, rather than be shuffled down the batting list.
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Travis Head is the obvious choice to move up should Khawaja be benched, considering his heroics in Perth were what got Australia over the line to take a 1-0 lead in the series, but selectors may prefer him keep his middle-order spot.
Jake Weatherald is expected to get another shot at the top, too, after his 23 in the second innings.
There had been some chat that Pat Cummins may return, but it’s looking more likely he’ll play at this stage.
