New Delhi: Usman Khawaja will thank his consistency in order to find a place in the Australian Test side against West Indies in the Boxing Day Test.
The Australian batsman replaced an in-form Shaun Marsh as Steven Smith led side took a tough call in the given situation.
Khawaja's return to the Aussie side was seen after he suffered a hamstring injury in Adelaide against New Zealand last month.
The Australia No. 3 batsman had been is supreme form before that scoring two tons against the Black Caps. Khawaja marked his return to competitive cricket by slamming a century in the ongoing Big Bash League for Sydney Thunder. He struck an unbeaten 109* to show the selectors he is ready to take back his place in the side.
Against an out of sorts West Indies side, Khawaja has the opportunity to go big and get runs under his belt. The drafting of Khawaja shows Australia's faith in the 29-year-old as they eye consistency. Khawaja can use this chance to build on his confidence.
Khawaja replaced Shaun Marsh who scored a superb ton against the Windies in the first Test to help Australia win. Marsh for now needs to be patient and keep his confidence going given the fact Khawaja's return is no luck but deserving too.
Marsh's omission also shows Australia's strength in the batting department as they are spoilt for choices. Khawaja will hope Boxing Day Test goes good for him as Australia gave him the perfect Christmas present in selecting him ahead of Marsh.
