Australia suffered a brief scare late in the second session as Usman Khawaja walked off gingerly, with Michael Neser coming in as the substitute fielder. The left-hander looked uncomfortable while moving around, prompting immediate attention from the support staff.
Can Khawaja open for Australia in the second innings?
Unlike the first innings — where Khawaja was forced to wait because he had been off the field for a prolonged period — this situation is far lighter.
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Khawaja has not been off the field long enough to trigger the “time penalty” rule.
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He is expected to return soon, as this looks precautionary rather than a confirmed injury.
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If he comes back within the allowed time window, he can open as usual for Australia.
Unless Khawaja stays off the field for 8 or more consecutive overs, there is no restriction preventing him from opening the batting.
Match situation
England are in trouble at 93/6, still leading by 133 runs, after Mitchell Starc completed a sensational 10-wicket match haul (10/78) — the first Australian seamer to take an Ashes ten-for since Craig McDermott in 1990/91.
Australia will hope Khawaja is fit to resume soon, especially with a tricky chase likely awaiting them later today.
