Marnus Labuschagne, the most recent Australian batter to overcome intense selection scrutiny, has declined to offer any words of wisdom to veteran opener Usman Khawaja, whose Test future is under a cloud ahead of the second Ashes match. Labuschagne also stopped short of endorsing the idea that players like Khawaja should have the final say on their retirement, emphasising that the team's needs must always come first.
Pressure Mounts on Khawaja Ahead of Gabba Test
Despite being named in the extended squad for the second Test at the Gabba starting Thursday, Usman Khawaja is no guarantee to open the batting. This uncertainty follows Travis Head's masterful performance at the top of the order in the victorious first Test in Perth. Khawaja's position is further complicated by a recent run of lean form and fitness concerns.
The 38-year-old was forced from the field during the first Test due to back spasms, which prevented him from opening as planned. He managed only two runs in his sole innings in Perth, continuing a difficult patch. Since June 2023, he has posted only one century, which came in subcontinental conditions.
Khawaja was seen at Australia's optional training session on Monday, working with team staff to stretch his troublesome back and completing light running drills. However, the pressure on his spot is immense, a situation Labuschagne himself faced before his recall for the Ashes opener.
Labuschagne's Stance: No Advice, Team First
When asked if he had any advice for his Queensland Bulls teammate, Labuschagne was clear. "I don't think he needs advice, he's 38, he's been around the block a long time," Labuschagne stated. He praised Khawaja's remarkable career, highlighting his adaptability in moving from the middle order to become a successful opener.
However, Labuschagne was firm on the principle of team priority when discussing whether a veteran player should control their retirement timeline, as David Warner did during the 2023-24 summer. "I think the most important thing is the team comes first at any stage," Labuschagne asserted. He acknowledged Khawaja's stellar record—85 Tests at an average of 43.56—but noted the decision was not his or any player's to make.
An Inevitable Conversation Given Khawaja's Age
Even if Khawaja retains his place for the Brisbane Test, discussion about his future is unlikely to fade. At 38, and turning 39 midway through the third Test, an axing would likely signal the end of his international career. Earlier this year, Khawaja indicated that playing in the Ashes was a "bare minimum" goal. A potential fairytale finish on his home ground at the SCG remains a possibility, mirroring Warner's farewell.
Meanwhile, Labuschagne is relishing his own return to the Test side. He forced his way back with domestic runs and scored an unbeaten half-century batting at No.3 in the first Test. "To be able to go out there and finish the game off... was really exciting," he said, adding that scoring runs at Test level was the ultimate validation of his preparation.
The focus now shifts to the Gabba, where selectors face a critical decision that could define the final chapter of Usman Khawaja's distinguished career in the baggy green.
