Australian batsman Usman Khawaja is under scrutiny after making inappropriate remarks about the pitch used in the Perth Test, which the International Cricket Council (ICC) had rated as “very good.”
The comments came during a luncheon hosted by Khawaja’s foundation, according to Australian media reports. Cricket Australia stated that Khawaja does not have the authority to publicly make such remarks about the pitch and may be asked to explain his comments before the upcoming Brisbane Test. Authorities said that if deemed necessary, disciplinary action could be taken under the Code of Conduct.
This controversy follows Khawaja’s earlier criticism for missing the Perth Test due to back pain sustained while playing golf, which drew widespread media and expert criticism. Despite calls from former players to drop him from the Ashes squad, Khawaja has been retained for the Day-Night Brisbane Test starting December 4.
Khawaja’s recent pitch comments have reignited debate over players’ responsibilities when speaking publicly about match conditions, highlighting the strict scrutiny professional cricketers face regarding media conduct.
