Khawaja’s knock hits right spot
USMAN Khawaja’s seventh coming as a Test batsman has arrived after the Queensland Bulls captain cemented his recall for next week’s Ashes opener at the Gabba.
While Bulls teammate Matt Renshaw is fighting for his Test berth, Khawaja’s unbeaten 78 ( 192 balls) against NSW at Allan Border Field yesterday would have filled selectors with confidence.
Khawaja came to the crease with Queensland at 1- 11 and batted for more than four hours, giving the Blues nothing as only a lack of batting partners prevented him racking up his second century of the Sheffield Shield season.
Khawaja, 30, was dropped for the sixth time during his 24- Test career on the twomatch Bangladesh tour in September. But an Ashes recall at No. 3 for the Gabba Test starting Thursday week is now a fait accompli for the graceful left- hander, who is averaging 98.33 from five Shield innings.
“It wasn’t comfortable, it was tough work,” Khawaja said of his innings, despite seeming at ease. “It was tough to score in patches. It felt tough all day.
“I feel good, things are going well, but I know how quickly things can change.
“My plans and mindset don’t change. I’ve still got to score runs for the team and win the game.”
Renshaw’s opening partner Joe Burns ( two) fell to quick Doug Bollinger early, bringing Khawaja to the crease after five overs. Renshaw ( 16) survived a tricky period against the new ball and seemed surprised when he was given out, caught behind, off Trent Copeland.
The Bulls lost constant wickets after starting the second session at 4- 72, with allrounder Jack Wildermuth ( 27) the only batsman to show any genuine fight alongside Khawaja as Queensland were bowled out for 183.
The dismissals of David Warner ( 26) and Steve Smith ( 44) left NSW at 3- 83.