Cricket Australia on January 19 offered a major update on opener Usman Khawaja and announced that the batter did not suffer a fractured jaw after being hit by a bouncer from West Indies' Shamar Joseph during the third day of the first Test at Adelaide Oval. Khawaja experienced a frightening moment when the bouncer hit his helmet, causing him to spit blood and prompting immediate medical attention.
The incident occurred as Australia neared their victory target of 26 runs, set after a stellar bowling performance by Josh Hazlewood earlier in the day. At the point when scores were level, Khawaja had to retire hurt due to the impact of the blow. He received prompt medical care on the field, visibly concerned about his upper jaw and cheekbone, before being escorted off.
Khawaja was promptly taken to the hospital for scans, even as his teammate Marnus Labuschagne secured the winning runs, giving Australia a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. Following the incident, Cricket Australia issued a statement saying that Khawaja will undergo monitoring for any delayed concussion symptoms, a standard procedure in sports for head injuries. The statement also noted that Khawaja did not exhibit immediate signs of concussion post the helmet strike.
"Usman Khawaja has been cleared of a fractured jaw and will be monitored for any delayed concussion symptoms leading into the second NRMA Insurance Test match against the West Indies in Brisbane," a Cricket Australia statement said.
"Khawaja was not diagnosed with a concussion on his initial post-match assessment today," it added.
In the coming days, the Australian team will closely monitor Khawaja's condition, particularly with the second Test against West Indies scheduled at The Gabba in Brisbane from January 25 to 29. Given that the first Test concluded within three days, the Australian team has a break over the weekend, which could be crucial for Khawaja's recovery and assessment.
Australian captain Pat Cummins provided a reassuring update, indicating that Khawaja seemed to be in stable condition following the incident.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
WATCH: Players rush to Usman Khawaja's aid after Shamar Joseph's deadly bouncer rocks Australian batter; video viral
AUS vs WI: Australia demolish West Indies by 10 wickets in Adelaide Test after Travis Head's ton and Josh Hazlewood's 9 wickets
