Khawaja still ‘cool’ after brother’s arrest
CRICKET: Australian team members have rallied around Usman Khawaja ahead of today’s Adelaide Test with the star batsman attempting to come to terms with news his brother has been charged by police over a fake terror plot.
Khawaja’s brother Arsalan was charged in Sydney on Tuesday over the discovery of a fake terror plot to kill senior politicians.
It has been alleged he devised the plot to “set up” a work colleague when the two were feuding over a woman.
Australian highperformance coach Ryan Harris said the timing of the arrest was unfortunate but the squad was supporting Khawaja (pictured) as the Adelaide Test loomed.
“Obviously not great news but I’m sure everyone is rallying around him,” Harris said yesterday.
“He’s ready to go. They’re all just focusing on the cricket.
“There’s been a lot of other stuff said about this but they’re just excited about playing a home Test here in Australia.”
Harris’ comments came after reports emerged that Australia’s selectors were seeking reassurance Khawaja was ready for the mental challenges of a Test match while coming to terms with the news surrounding his brother.
News of Arsalan’s arrest broke when the Australians were training at Adelaide Oval on Tuesday and coach Justin Langer, himself a selector, was asked to speak to Khawaja on behalf of the panel.
“We’re keeping an eye on Uzzie,” Langer said yesterday.
“It was a little bit of a shock for him. I know his wife’s here with him and we’ll look after him. He’ll be as cool and calm as usual out in the middle.”