January 3, 2025: Usman Khawaja’s poor form continued to haunt him in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, as he was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah once again during the fifth and final Test in Sydney on Friday. On the last ball of Day 1’s play, Khawaja, who had faced just 10 balls, was caught by KL Rahul at slip for a mere two runs. This dismissal further added to his dismal record against Bumrah in this series.
Khawaja’s record against Bumrah has been especially concerning. In the current series, he has faced 112 balls from Bumrah across eight innings, scoring just 33 runs and getting out six times. This has resulted in an abysmal batting average of just 5.50 against Bumrah, with the pacer proving to be a significant thorn in his side. Remarkably, only Alastair Cook has been dismissed as many times by an Indian bowler in a single series, with Ravindra Jadeja accounting for Cook’s wicket six times in India in 2016.
Khawaja’s overall performance in the series has also been subpar. After five Tests and nine innings, he has managed just 143 runs at an average of 17.87, with a solitary half-century (57). His lack of consistent runs has raised serious concerns, especially after a stellar return to the Australian team in 2022. During that period, he made a name for himself, but his form has now taken a sharp downturn, leaving fans and critics questioning his place in the team.
In 2024, Khawaja’s form worsened further, with 415 runs in nine Tests at an average of 25.93, and just two half-centuries. Since his recall, he has played 34 Tests, amassing 2,707 runs at a commendable average of 48 with seven centuries and 13 fifties. However, his recent struggles have overshadowed his earlier successes, prompting discussions about whether he will be dropped or backed to play in the Ashes series later this year.
On the other hand, India, after winning the toss and electing to bat, had a disappointing start. The top order faltered, with Virat Kohli (17) continuing his struggles against deliveries outside the off-stump. However, there were valiant efforts from Rishabh Pant (40 off 98 balls), Ravindra Jadeja (26 off 95 balls), and Jasprit Bumrah (22 off 17 balls), which helped India to a total of 185 all out in 72.2 overs.
For Australia, Scott Boland was the standout bowler, taking 4 wickets for 31 runs and once again being a key figure in dismissing Indian batters. Mitchell Starc contributed with 3 wickets for 49 runs, while Pat Cummins took 2 for 37. Australia will now look to capitalize on India’s relatively low total and take control of the game.
As the series progresses, Khawaja’s ability to overcome his struggles, particularly against Bumrah, will be crucial for Australia’s prospects. With the Ashes looming on the horizon, Khawaja’s form (or lack thereof) could play a pivotal role in determining his future in the national side.
