Australia’s veteran opener, Usman Khawaja, is on track to resume training for the second Test against the West Indies in Brisbane.
Khawaja, 37, suffered a head impact during the first Test, retiring hurt after being struck on the helmet by a delivery from Shamar Joseph.
In an official statement, the Australian team confirmed Khawaja’s progress through concussion protocols, stating, “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.”
Closely monitored for any delayed symptoms
The statement also mentioned that Khawaja would be closely monitored for any delayed symptoms and reviewed again before returning to training ahead of the second Test.
If Khawaja remains unfit to play, Australia will be forced to find a new opener for the second Test. Previously, Steve Smith had taken up the role after David Warner’s retirement from the format following the series sweep against Pakistan. Unless there is another positional change, Matt Renshaw appears to be the most likely candidate to open in Khawaja’s absence.
The second Test, scheduled as a day-night fixture, is set to commence on Thursday, with Khawaja’s availability still uncertain at this point.
