“Wanted Marnus To Have A Hit”: Usman Khawaja Gives A Funny Reason Why He Walked Off After Being Hit On The Jaw In 1st AUS vs WI Test

Australia opener Usman Khawaja was hit by a steep bouncer from West Indies pacer Shamar Joseph on Day 3 of the first Test in Adelaide.

The physio came out and checked on the opener. With only one run required to win, it was decided that it would be better to take him off the field. Marnus Labuschagne, the designated number 3, came in and scored the one run that sealed Australia’s victory in Adelaide.

In the evening, Usman Khawaja took to his Instagram to give an update on his injury while also managing a cheeky dig at Marnus Labuschagne.

Khawaja captioned his post: “Thanks for all the well wishes. I’m fine, just wanted Marnus to have a hit!

https://www.instagram.com/p/C2RTYEdvi_1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

While the hosts took a 1-0 lead in the 2-Test series with a comprehensive win, with the game ending in the first session of Day 3, they will have been given some concern about Usman Khawaja’s availability for the second Test, which starts on January 25.

Khawaja copped a nasty blow to his head from Shamar Joseph, the best West Indies bowler in the game. From around the wicket angle, Joseph sent a short ball directed at the head of the batter. Initially, it seems that Usman Khawaja wanted to play at it but then quickly decided to evade. However, he could do neither. In the end, he had his face turned, and the ball crashed into his right jaw after brushing on his chest. The team doctor assessed him and decided it was sensible to take him out. 

Cricket Australia then confirmed that Usman Khawaja passed the first concussion test and the scans of his jaw had also come clear.

The left-hander will need to pass another concussion test on January 20th to be cleared to play in the second Test. However, a delayed concussion also remains a possibility and he will be monitored for that.

Australia were given a paltry target of 26 runs, which they achieved without losing a wicket. Travis Head was named the Man of the Match for his attacking century, scoring 119 runs in 134 balls. Josh Hazlewood took 9 wickets in the game.

Also Read: IND vs ENG: Predicting India’s Playing XI For First Test Against England In Hyderabad