NEW DELHI:
Australia
opener
Usman Khawaja
is uncertain for the
second Test
against West Indies after sustaining a blow to his jaw during the series opener in Adelaide.
Despite Australia securing a convincing 10-wicket victory inside seven sessions, Khawaja's potential absence is a concern for the home team.
The incident occurred when Khawaja was hit on the helmet by a short delivery from West Indies' Shamar Joseph.
The 37-year-old opener retired hurt after the blow, spitting blood and indicating discomfort in his jaw before leaving the field.
Although he passed an initial concussion test, Khawaja underwent scans, and his condition will be reevaluated on Saturday.
Australian captain
Pat Cummins
provided an update, stating, "He seemed okay, just a little bit of a sore jaw. We'll monitor it, but he seemed okay."
The second and final Test, scheduled as a day-night match in Brisbane, is set to commence on Thursday. Khawaja's potential absence may lead to
Matthew Renshaw
taking his place in the playing XI.
With
David Warner
's retirement, Australia had fielded a new opening pair in the first Test, with Steve Smith moving up from number four to partner Khawaja at the top of the order. Khawaja's injury raises questions about the stability of the opening combination for the upcoming Test.
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite expressed concern for Khawaja, saying, "Let's hope he's okay, no one wants to see a guy get injured playing this game that we love."
As the cricketing community awaits further updates on Khawaja's condition, the focus shifts to the second Test in Brisbane, where Australia will aim to secure a series win against West Indies.
(With inputs from Reuters)
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