Published: Oct 24, 2018, 10:56 AM (IST)
Edited: Oct 24, 2018, 10:56 AM (IST)
Usman Khawaja could make it back to the team right in time for Australia’s marquee Test series against India in December. Khawaja, who’s patient 141 off 302 in the first Test in Dubai denied Pakistan victory, underwent surgery on his left knee on Tuesday after he suffered a meniscal tear during a training session during the second Test at Abu Dhabi.
According to a report in cricket.com.au on Wednesday, Khawaja could be back in time for one JLT Sheffield Shield match before the four-Test series against India which begins with the first Test on December 6 at Adelaide. Khawaja will take around four to six weeks to recover following the surgery.
“My understanding is he’s had surgery though I haven’t heard the results yet,” coach Justin Langer was quoted as saying in SEN on Wednesday.
“Some of my messages yesterday were that he might be up for the Shield game before the first Test, which would be a real bonus for us.”
Meanwhile, former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie has thrown his weight behind Khawaja and hopes selectors pursue with the southpaw for the Test series. “Usman has been left out at certain times when maybe he shouldn’t have been, maybe he hasn’t quite been given the backing and the support that he’s probably deserved,” Gillespie said on The Unplayable Podcast.
“I think everyone knows Usman can play and I think for him moving forward, which I don’t think has happened in the past, [he should] be allowed to learn and develop playing on the subcontinent.
“Yes, he may have some ups and downs, but he’s certainly not on his own there. I think Australian cricket has got to identify that Usman Khawaja is a pretty special player and to be able to give him the opportunities to learn, maybe potentially make some mistakes, but learn from those mistakes and be a better player. I fully expect when he’s back to full fitness to see him making a real impact on the Australian side.”
