Former Australian Test captain Tim Paine believes Usman Khawaja will play international cricket for several more years. Paine dismissed retirement talks surrounding the Australian opener.
Paine cited Khawaja’s recent form as the reason for his continued place at the top of the order. Since becoming an opener in the 2021/22 Ashes series, Khawaja averages 54.04.
“I can’t believe we’re even talking about this,” Paine said on SEN Tassie.
He highlighted Khawaja’s recent success as an opener.
“He’s been nearly the best player in the world, particularly as an opening batter, for the last two years,” Paine said. “With his age in cricket, in particular as a batter, it’s just a number. He doesn’t look like he’s lost reflex, his eyes are good, and he’s batting as well as he’s ever batted.”
Paine acknowledged potential injury or form concerns but expects Khawaja to play at the top level for one to two more years.
He suggested 19-year-old New South Wales batsman Sam Konstas as a potential long-term replacement. Konstas is a rising star in the Sheffield Shield.
“If something were to happen in the short-term, I think we’ve got our answer,” Paine said, endorsing Konstas’ potential.
“Out of the four guys that are playing right now, I think they would lean toward Sam Konstas if something were to happen to a second opener. I said to you last week, he played a few shots that show he’s going to be a gun; you can tell he’s going to handle the occasion.”
Paine believes the pieces fit well, allowing Konstas to gain experience and be prepared to take on the opener’s role when Khawaja retires.
“The timing for me looks to be lining up that he would be the one to replace Usman when he decides to call time. But hopefully, Usman has a clean bill of health during the summer because he’s going to be really important for us,” Paine added.