Usman Khawaja Attends F1 Race After Missing Sheffield Shield Fixture; Sparks Controversy

Usman Khawaja attends F1 Grand Prix at Albert Park [Source: @zanofc/X.com]

Usman Khawaja has found himself at the center of controversy after skipping Queensland’s Sheffield Shield match against South Australia, citing a hamstring injury. However, the experienced Australian opener stirred debate when he was spotted attending the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne over the weekend.

Khawaja is also believed to have opted out to spend time with his family during Ramadan. Instead of traveling with the team, Usman flew to Melbourne with his wife and was seen enjoying the F1 race.

Usman Khawaja’s Absence Raises Questions

Khawaja had reportedly made himself available for the Sheffield Shield final despite missing the last match of the regular season. But the situation took a dramatic turn on Wednesday when comments from Queensland Cricket’s Head of Elite Cricket, Joe Dawes, cast doubt over his participation.

Dawes told News Corp, “Our medical staff said all the way through he has been available for selection. That is my understanding from Cricket Australia staff as well. No hamstring issues as far as we are concerned. I go off our medical staff, and there is no reason why he could not have played the last game. It’s just disappointing he didn’t play a game for Queensland when he had an opportunity to.”

His absence did not sit well with Queensland Cricket officials, with Dawes further commenting, 

“I have got a bunch of blokes here that all want to play. I think we are disappointed he did not play the game against South Australia. That’s the decision he made, and he has communicated some of the reasons for that in the public. Hopefully, he will make that decision to be available (for the final) next week, and we will make that decision on Friday.”

Queensland Officials Express Displeasure

Queensland Cricket Deputy Chair Ian Healy also weighed in on the matter while speaking on SENQ, saying,

“I’m glad I didn’t have my television on (to see him at the F1).” He further revealed that Cricket Australia was unaware of Queensland’s concerns regarding Khawaja’s absence, adding, “Cricket Australia should feel a little under the pump with this. I spoke with them, and they weren’t aware of Queensland’s concerns with him not playing for Queensland. They wish we would have rung them earlier.”

Despite the backlash, Khawaja has reportedly made himself available for Queensland’s Sheffield Shield final. However, with questions lingering over his commitment and the growing frustration within Queensland Cricket, it remains to be seen whether he will take the field for the crucial match.

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