Australia’s Usman Khawaja fails to play a shot and caught behind the stumps off England’s Brydon Carse on day 1 of the first Ashes cricket Test match between Australia and England at Perth Stadium in Perth on November 21, 2025. (Photo by Saeed KHAN / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE --
BREAKING: Australian opener Usman Khawaja has been sidelined due to severe back spasms during the opening day of the first Ashes Test in Perth. The 39-year-old veteran left the field for treatment, causing a significant reshuffle in Australia’s batting order as they struggled to keep pace with England.
Khawaja’s condition created chaos as he was unable to bat at his usual spot due to the time spent off the field. Under ICC regulations, he needed to return to the ground for the duration of his absence in order to qualify to bat. He ultimately returned to the crease at No.4 but was dismissed for just two runs off six balls, contributing to Australia’s dismal score of 123 runs for 9 at stumps, trailing behind England’s first-innings total of 172 runs.
Initial reports from team officials suggested Khawaja had taken a toilet break or was stretching, but it was later confirmed that he was grappling with back issues, marking the second time he had left the field. Cricket Australia stated that Khawaja entered the match without any known injuries. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc revealed that teammates were unaware of Khawaja’s condition until late in the innings.
“I didn’t know about it until the ninth wicket,” Starc said. “He had a back spasm the second time he came off, so we got caught off-guard with the wickets falling pretty quickly.” Starc expressed concern, adding, “It’s just unfortunate. He’ll manage it overnight and see where it’s at tomorrow.”
In Khawaja’s absence, Marnus Labuschagne was promoted to open, but the situation worsened when debutant Jake Weatherald was dismissed in the first over, forcing Khawaja to slip behind Steve Smith in the batting order.
As the team grapples with these unexpected developments, all eyes will be on Khawaja’s recovery and whether he can return to the crease on Day 2 of this critical Ashes series. Stay tuned for updates on his condition and the unfolding match situation.
