Usman Khawaja has strongly defended himself after facing criticism from Queensland Cricket for missing a Sheffield Shield match. The veteran batter expressed frustration over claims that he opted out, emphasizing that both Cricket Australia and Queensland Cricket were aware of his hamstring injury.

Queensland Officials Question Khawaja’s Commitment

Queensland Cricket general manager Joe Dawes fueled the controversy by stating that no one reported Khawaja’s hamstring issues. He expressed disappointment that the left-hander didn’t play despite being available. Board member Ian Healy also criticized Khawaja’s commitment.

Khawaja dismissed these claims.

“A lot of misinformation is being spread,” he said. “I kept everything in-house, but now I have to speak up. The physios knew about my injury, and it was recorded in our athlete management system.”

After returning from Sri Lanka, Khawaja managed multiple injuries, including a hamstring impingement, a torn rotator cuff, and a calf strain. He worked with Australia’s chairman of selectors, George Bailey, to create a plan for managing his workload.

Planned Rest Before the Shield Final

Khawaja outlined the plan: he would play against Tasmania, then rest to avoid aggravating his injuries before the Sheffield Shield final.

“At 38, I can’t push myself too hard. I have to manage my body carefully,” he said.

Despite informing Queensland’s coaching staff, no one contacted him after the Tasmania match.

“After that game, I didn’t hear from Joe Dawes, Johan Botha, or any medical staff at Queensland Cricket,” he said. “I assumed everything was fine, but suddenly, reports surfaced that I opted out. That was devastating.”

Formula 1 Appearance Draws Criticism

Some critics questioned why Khawaja attended the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne if he was injured. He dismissed their concerns, explaining that he continued his rehabilitation while in Melbourne and maintained contact with Cricket Australia’s medical staff.

“I did my rehab and completed three gym sessions while I was away,” he said. “Andrew McDonald told me, ‘Uzi, what you do in your spare time is up to you.’ I take care of my body, and that’s why I’m still playing at 38.”

He also pointed out a double standard. Queensland coach Johan Botha skipped a Sheffield Shield match earlier in the season to compete in an ultra-marathon but faced no criticism.

Determined to Play in the Shield Final

Despite the controversy, Khawaja confirmed his availability for the upcoming Sheffield Shield final against South Australia in Adelaide.

“I’ve worked hard in my recovery over the last two weeks. I’ll test my sprinting soon, and if everything goes well, I’ll be ready,” he said.

He reiterated his dedication to Queensland Cricket and expressed frustration over people questioning his commitment.

“People questioning my dedication hurts the most. I’ve given my heart and soul to Queensland Cricket,” he said. “But I don’t hold grudges. I’m ready to move forward and give my best in the final.”

With the Sheffield Shield final approaching, Khawaja remains focused on his game, determined to let his performance on the field do the talking.