Tim Paine backs Usman Khawaja to extend his Test career
Former Australian captain Tim Paine has backed experienced opener Usman Khawaja to extend his Test career. Although Khawaja is nearing his 38th birthday, Paine brushed aside retirement rumors. He emphasized Khawaja's consistent performances and resilience as evidence of his continued worth to the Australian side. Since he became an opener at the end of the 2021-22 Ashes series, Khawaja has averaged 54.04 in Tests.
Paine dismisses age-related concerns about Khawaja's performance
In a chat on SEN Tassie, Paine brushed aside worries about Khawaja's age affecting his performance. He said, "I can't believe we're even talking about this." Paine further stressed that age is just a number for a batter like Khawaja, who has been one of the world's finest openers in the past few years. He added that Khawaja shows no signs of slowing down and continues to bat as well as ever.
Paine confident in Khawaja's ability to continue at elite level
Paine is confident that Khawaja would be able to perform at an elite level for another year or two. He doesn't see an immediate need for the veteran cricketer to retire. However, he admitted that unexpected circumstances like injuries or form slumps could lead Australia to search for a replacement. In that case, Paine feels Australian cricket is well-prepared with emerging talent ready to step up.
Paine identifies potential successor to Khawaja
Paine also singled out 19-year-old New South Wales prodigy Sam Konstas as a long-term replacement for Khawaja. Konstas has already shown his potential in the Sheffield Shield with his maturity and technical skills. "If something were to happen in the short-term, I think we've got our answer," Paine said, praising Konstas's ability to handle high-level cricket demands. He also noted that timing seems favorable for Konstas, giving him ample time to develop before Khawaja eventually retires.
