AUS vs WI: Usman Khawaja Likely to Return to Training for Brisbane Test After Bouncer Blow by Shamar Joseph

Australia’s opening batter, Usman Khawaja is likely to play the second Test against the West Indies which takes place at the Gabba after the batter managed to pass his normal concussion protocols on Sunday.

Khawaja had suffered a blow to the head in the first test where he was struck on the helmet thanks to a short-pitched delivery from the debuting pace bowler, Shamar Joseph. The batter was forced to retire hurt after Australia only needed one run to win the Test match.

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According to the statement by a Cricket Australia (CA) spokesperson,” Usman Khawaja continues to progress through protocols following a head impact in the first test match against the West Indies. He completed normal concussion assessments today.”

The spokesperson also added, “Khawaja will continue to be monitored for any delayed symptoms. He will be reviewed again tomorrow before returning to training ahead of the second test match in Brisbane.”

After receiving the blow to the head, Khawaja was seen spitting blood. But the batter was cleared from any damage following a scan. He also posted on his Instagram revealing that he is fine after the blow. His post was captioned, “Thanks for all the well wishes. I’m fine, just wanted Marnus to have a hit!”

A post shared by Usman Khawaja (@usman_khawajy)

Khawaja managed to score 47, just missing out on his half-century in the first innings. But Travis Head managed to steal the show with a scintillating century scoring 119 off 134 deliveries and pushing the Aussies to set a total of 283 at the Adelaide Oval. Josh Hazlewood managed to star for the Aussies with the ball having taken four in the first innings along with skipper Pat Cummins and then finishing with a fifer in the second innings to help seal the win over the West Indies.

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The West Indies have roped in a pretty inexperienced side with Kraigg Braithwaite having to lead the side while Kemar Roach is leading the bowling attack for the West Indies. One of the positives for the Caribbean side is the performance of Shamar Joseph who made his debut and took a fifer in the first innings. He also managed to get Steve Smith out on his very first delivery as well.

Australia will go up against the West Indies at the Gabba on Tuesday for the day-night Test. If Australia decide to go with the cautious approach and bench Usman Khawaja, they have Matthew Renshaw in the squad who can come and slot in at the opening slot with Steve Smith.