'He doesn't need advice': Marnus Labuschagne backs Usman Khawaja
Australian cricketer Marnus Labuschagne has come out in support of his teammate Usman Khawaja, who is currently facing a rough patch in his form. The 38-year-old opener had a stellar start to 2025 with a double century against Sri Lanka, but has only managed one 50-plus score in his last 14 innings since then. This poor run has raised questions about his place in Australia's XI for the second Ashes Test against England, starting on December 4 in Brisbane.
Khawaja's fitness concerns and team performance
Khawaja's fitness has also been a concern, as he suffered from back spasms during the opening Test against England in Perth. He didn't open in the second innings of that match, with Travis Head taking his place and scoring a brilliant hundred to help Australia win. Despite these challenges, Khawaja has been retained in the squad for the Brisbane Test.
Labuschagne's confidence in Khawaja's abilities
Speaking to reporters, Labuschagne said he doesn't think Khawaja needs advice on how to turn his form around. The Australian batsman emphasized that Khawaja has been playing for a long time and has successfully navigated through rough patches in the past. "I don't think he needs advice, he's 38, he's been around the block a long time," Labuschagne said.
Labuschagne emphasizes team over individual decisions
Even if Khawaja keeps his place for the Brisbane Test, discussions about his future are likely to continue. The opener had said earlier this year that playing in the Ashes is the bare minimum he wants to achieve. However, Labuschagne stressed that it's not up to players like Khawaja to dictate when they finish their careers. "I think the most important thing is the team comes first at any stage," he said.
Recent struggles in home Tests
Khawaja, who is one of the most experienced players in the current Ashes squad, has struggled big time in home Tests in the last couple of years. Since the start of 2024 as per ESPNcricinfo, Khawaja has managed just 372 runs across 17 innings in Tests Down Under at an average of 24.80. He has just two 50-plus scores in this period.