Khawaja to Open for Queensland, Bulls Seek Stability in Shield
Usman Khawaja, the Australian Test opener, will return to his familiar opening position for Queensland in the upcoming Sheffield Shield season. This move is part of a strategic shift by new Bulls coach Johan Botha to stabilize the team’s middle order after a disappointing campaign last summer.
Despite being the Test opener, Khawaja had batted at No. 4 in his last eight Shield games. However, Botha believes that having Khawaja open will provide stability to the Bulls’ batting lineup, especially with the departure of Test players Marnus Labuschagne and Khawaja himself after the first three Shield rounds.
Jack Clayton, who emerged as Queensland’s leading run-scorer last season, is expected to settle at No. 4, benefiting from the stability provided by Khawaja’s move to the top of the order. Botha praised Khawaja for his willingness to adjust his position for the team’s benefit.
On the bowling front, Michael Neser is expected to be available for the start of the season after recovering from a calf injury. His return is a boost for the Bulls, who have been concerned about their fast bowling depth ahead of the India series.
However, Xavier Bartlett is expected to miss at least the first month of the season due to a side strain. This injury adds to Australia’s fast bowling woes, with Scott Boland managing a knee complaint and Lance Morris returning slowly from a stress fracture.
Despite these injury concerns, Botha is confident in the Bulls’ ability to perform well this season. He believes that the stability provided by Khawaja’s move to the top of the order and the return of Neser will be key factors in their success.