Usman Khawaja has been a good player for Australian cricket, scoring runs all around the world. He just scored a double century against Sri Lanka in Galle, but besides that, he’s only scored two fifties in Tests since 2024. Now at 37 and after a tough outing in the WTC final, the Aussie selectors might consider giving a younger player a go. They’ve got some good options so dropping Khawaja for the next WTC cycle isn’t out of the question. Let’s take a look at three possible replacements if they decide to move on from him.
1. Sam Konstas
The standout opener right now is 19-year-old Sam Konstas. He played two Tests against India and scored a fifty on debut. He’s also got a couple of hundreds in first-class cricket, but it was his century against a strong Indian side in a practice match last year that really caught people’s attention.
Pros for Sam Konstas
– Has shown he can handle big games early in his career
– A long term investment for the team
– Aggressive style of play suits today’s game
Though he didn’t play in the WTC final, being in the squad shows the selectors have faith in him. He’s a good chance for the next WTC cycle.
Read Also:- Australia Creates This Unwanted Record in the WTC Finals
2. Cameron Bancroft
Once a regular in the Australian side, Cameron Bancroft’s career hit a snag due to the Sandpapergate scandal and he hasn’t played since 2019.
Pros for Cameron Bancroft
– Good record in first-class cricket
– Experience to bring to the team
Bancroft has been scoring runs in domestic cricket consistently with over 11,000 runs and 31 centuries and 40 fifties. If the selectors want someone with experience, he’s a good option.
3. Marcus Harris:
Marcus Harris is another experienced player having played 14 Tests for Australia. He’s been on the radar for a while and people have been calling for him to get regular chances especially after Warner retired.
Pros for Marcus Harris
– Left handed batter like Khawaja
– Has the experience
– In form lately
He’s been scoring well, three centuries for Lancashire this County season and 12,438 runs overall in first-class cricket, 32 centuries. He’d be a good replacement for Khawaja.
