Usman Khawaja bloodied and bruised, but Australia cruise to victory over West Indies
By
SABC Sport
19th January 2024
A fizzing bouncer forced Usman Khawaja to retire hurt, but Australia still eased to a comprehensive win in the opening Test match against the West Indies in Adelaide on Friday.
With Australia needing just one run to seal a ten-wicket win on the third morning, Khawaja was rocked by Shamar Joseph's rising delivery and was seen spitting blood as he retired hurt.
Khawaja went to hospital but was cleared of a broken jaw and passed an initial concussion test - although the left-handed opener will continue to be assessed for delayed symptoms.
The 37-year-old laughed off the incident on social media later and said he only went off to allow Marnus Labuschagne to hit the winning run, which he did in the same over.
"Thanks for all the well wishes," he said on Instagram alongside an image of him spitting blood.
"I'm fine, just wanted Marnus to have a hit!"
The incident was the only setback for Australia, who chased down a paltry target of 26 in 6.4 overs after the Windies turned their overnight 73 for six into 120 all out, with Josh Hazlewood taking five for 35.
The second and final Test - a day-night encounter in Brisbane - gets underway next Thursday.
