Usman Khawaja’s struggles during the first Test in Perth have been misinterpreted by some as a consequence of playing golf on the eve of the match. In reality, it was back spasms that limited his performance, not a lack of preparation or commitment.
Khawaja played 18 holes of golf on Thursday alongside Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and members of the Australian coaching staff. However, this came after six hours of batting in the nets over three days, ensuring he had completed his usual workload. When Australia began their Ashes preparation on Tuesday, Khawaja was among the first to bat with Steve Smith and one of the last to leave the nets, facing throwdowns, net bowlers, and Pat Cummins.
He also participated fully in fielding and catching drills in the main training session, proving that his preparation routine remained rigorous. The back spasm he suffered during the first innings forced him out of the opening slot, despite taking strong painkillers before play. During Day 2, Khawaja battled through the stiffness for 15 overs, allowing him to open the second innings before an awkward slip-fielding incident ended his participation.
Khawaja himself described it as the “best back spasm” he has experienced, as it allowed Travis Head to open and play one of the greatest innings in Ashes history. Nevertheless, his place in the team remains under scrutiny as Australia looks to build on a 1–0 lead heading into Brisbane.
Since David Warner’s retirement, Khawaja has scored 536 runs at an average of 21.44 with two half-centuries across 27 innings under seam-friendly conditions, including his epic 232 at Galle. While these are modest numbers for a former world-class opener, experts stress that his dedication to preparation has never been in question.
Golf before Tests has become common in world cricket, serving as both physical activity and mental relaxation. Khawaja has used the practice before previous centuries in India and Birmingham, showing that it has never been detrimental to his performance.
Table: Khawaja’s Perth Test Preparation & Performance
| Date | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2 days prior | Net batting | 6 hours cumulative |
| 1 day prior | Golf | 18 holes with Starc & Boland |
| Test day | Fielding/Drills | Full participation in main session |
| 1st Innings | Back spasm | Left the field shortly after play |
| 2nd Innings | Managed with painkillers | 15 overs played |