Khawaja, the haters, known unknowns, unknown unknowns and old-fashioned shenanigans

PL and the press pack chasing their tail trying to nail down the Australian XI

Usman Khawaja says they can’t hurt him. I hope it is true, but I suspect that his back is not the only thing causing him pain. Last night, on his social media channel, the opening batsman posted a photograph going through his religious prayer rituals alone in a long white robe, children’s toys and the trappings of Australian domestic life in the background.

“Every day, without fail, 5 times a day. And you think your hate and negativity can bring me down. Not even close. I’m the luckiest man in the world. Always. At least that’s how I perceive life. Alhamduilillah.”

On its basic level, Australian cricket’s rush toward the opening charms of Travis Head has been disrespectful toward Khawaja, a man who has averaged over 40 in 85 Tests for his country. Khawaja has played a critical role over recent years as Australia battled with the decline and exit of David Warner. He’s been the constant at the other end as a rotating roster of bit part players came and went.

You can’t blame Australian cricket fans and commentariat for having their heads turned by the new kid at the top of the order. Never take a holiday, never give a sucker an even break. Khawaja went missing in Perth, and Head took the opportunity.

The excited haste, however understandable, has been perhaps a little unseemly.