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Usman Khawaja finds form in Sheffield Shield as Australia get major boost before Ashes 2025

Arunima Purohit

Usman Khawaja [Source: @TurboLeaks/X]Usman Khawaja [Source: @TurboLeaks/X]

Australia's Test opener Usman Khawaja didn't have a great time in his recent Test appearances for the national team. With the Ashes beginning on November 21, Khawaja's place is in jeopardy, considering his recent form in the international set-up. However, his performance at the Sheffield Shield might open doors for the opener. 

Khawaja's Ashes redemption hopes alive amid return to form in Shield game

The left-handed batter is making sure to get back in form before the much-anticipated Ashes. Khawaja recently appeared in a Sheffield Shield match against New South Wales. Playing for Queensland, the 38-year-old batter played a magnificent 87-run knock to provide a great start to the team.

Although he missed his well-deserved century by just 13 runs, his innings helped Queensland avoid the follow-on. This knock would be enough for the selectors to retain him as an opener for the Ashes. However, even if Khawaja gets to be the first opener for the team, the selectors face another headache in selecting his opening partner.

The No. 1 contender for the spot is, of course, Sam Konstas. However, Khawaja’s opening partner in Queensland’s team, Matt Renshaw, had a decent opportunity to present his contention, but he could only score 29 runs.

Meanwhile, several reports also suggest that the Australian cricket team management is considering Marnus Labuschagne for the opening spot. The call will not be solely the management’s; Australia’s stand-in skipper for the first Test, Steve Smith, will also play a massive role in the decision.

Queensland Vs New South Wales: match drawn

Talking about the match between New South Wales and Queensland, NSW batted first and scored 429 runs on the back of the great knocks from Steve Smith (118) and Kurtis Patterson (122). In response, Queensland managed to score 347 runs, thanks to Jack Clayton’s century and Khawaja’s 87-run knock.

Skipper Marnus Labuschagne had a disappointing outing with the bat, scoring just four runs. However, he picked up a wicket with the ball during the first innings. Coming to the second innings, Sam Konstas showed his talent and played a quick 41-run knock as NSW ended at 79 runs, with the match being drawn.