Advertisement
Advertisement
BRISBANE: Marnus Labuschagne has publicly backed embattled opener Usman Khawaja ahead of the second Ashes Test, shutting down speculation that he could move up the order even if Australia decide to make changes at the top.
Khawaja endured a difficult outing in the opening Test against England in Perth, managing just two runs across the match while also battling back spasms that kept him off the field for significant periods.
England’s first-innings collapse meant he did not get the chance to open as scheduled, and when he walked out at No.4, he was dismissed cheaply by Brydon Carse
His movement in the field was restricted again on the second day, where he recovered enough to take a sharp catch at first slip to dismiss Harry Brook before his back flared up once more while attempting another chance off Jamie Smith.
The situation has intensified scrutiny on Khawaja’s form, with the left-hander averaging just over 31 since the end of the 2023 Ashes and registering only one century over that period.
The conversation gained further traction after Travis Head smashed a match-winning hundred as a stand-in opener, reigniting talk of a possible long-term change at the top of the order.
Speaking at The Gabba on Monday, Labuschagne dismissed the narrative that Khawaja needs guidance or replacement at this stage.
“I think Usman is a high-quality player and I don’t think he needs advice,” Labuschagne told reporters.
He praised the veteran’s record, longevity and adaptability, highlighting his consistency since returning to the Test side in 2021 and describing him as the backbone of the batting unit.
“You look at his record, 85 Tests and what he’s done for Australian cricket, especially since his comeback in 2021,” he added.
“He’s been super consistent; he’s been really the rock [in] the top there. I think there’s been a lot of talk about how many opening partners he’s had over his time.
“The way he’s gone about his game, the way he’s gone from a No. 3, 4 and then opened the batting, navigated some tricky scenarios, he’s just been awesome.”
Marnus Labuschagne also stressed that selection decisions rest solely with the management and that his focus remains on contributing in his own role.
“I think whatever happens is up to the people above my pay grade and what they deem is the best way for us to win the game and win this series. I think it’s just game by game and you work out what’s your best team,” he further stated.
READ: Three Pakistan stars secure deals in BPL 2025–26 auction
