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Hussey insists Khawaja is Australia's best opener
15 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Usman Khawaja was dropped after back spasms affected his first Test.
- Travis Head and Jake Weatherald have opened solidly in his absence.
- Michael Hussey believes Khawaja should return to open the batting.
The Australian Test cricket team faces a selection dilemma regarding Usman Khawaja's future in the side. Khawaja was sidelined for the second Test against England following a performance hampered by back spasms, allowing Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to open the batting, where they performed adequately.
Despite the solid opening partnership that followed, former Australian player Michael Hussey strongly advocates for Khawaja's immediate return. Hussey asserts that Khawaja, who was considered the primary opener before the series, is still the team's best option at the top of the order. He believes one affected innings should not overshadow Khawaja's established credentials.
Hussey proposes shifting Travis Head back to his preferred number five batting position, arguing that opening in Test cricket is exceptionally challenging. He contends that Head can achieve greater consistency in the middle order, while reinstating Khawaja would restore Australia's top opening pairing for the crucial third Ashes Test.
