The future of Australian Test opener Usman Khawaja is under intense scrutiny, with the 38-year-old's position in the side uncertain following a back injury. As speculation mounts over his playing career, his next move off the field has been confirmed.
Broadcasting Future Secured for Veteran Opener
According to reports from Nine, Usman Khawaja will transition into a full-time position as a commentator for Fox Cricket once he concludes his distinguished playing days. This move aligns him with his former opening partner and childhood friend, David Warner, who is already part of the network's broadcast team.
The shift into media has been widely anticipated for some time, given Khawaja's articulate and often outspoken nature on a range of issues within cricket and broader society. His potential for a broadcasting career was first highlighted during a revealing on-air conversation with Mark Howard during a rain-affected BBL match in 2019, following his controversial omission from the Test side at the time.
Injury Casts Shadow Over Immediate Test Role
Khawaja's immediate focus, however, is on his fitness. A back injury sustained during the first Test in Perth caused significant disruption. The issue was severe enough that he did not open the batting in either of Australia's innings, as he had not spent sufficient time on the field while England batted.
This setback has now ruled him out of the second Test at The Gabba, which begins on Thursday at 3pm AEDT. Travis Head, the first Test hero, is poised to replace Khawaja at the top of the order. Jake Weatherald is expected to retain his place after an encouraging second-innings performance in Perth.
Selectors Face Middle-Order Conundrum
Head's promotion, however, creates a fresh selection puzzle in the middle order. The choice for his replacement is giving the national selectors a considerable headache. All-rounder Beau Webster is a favourite among many fans to earn a recall, with a sense that he was unlucky to miss selection for the Perth Test.
Another strong contender is middle-order batter Josh Inglis, who some believe could provide a 'like-for-like' replacement for Head's aggressive style in the middle of the innings.
As Khawaja faces this period of professional uncertainty, his readiness for a media career is not in doubt. Known for his insightful commentary and willingness to engage on contentious topics—from the conflict in the Middle East to batting critiques from legends like Ian Chappell—the veteran batsman appears destined for a seamless transition into the commentary box whenever his final Test innings is played.
