Former Australia allrounder says Khawaja is 'world-class' in all three formats as the Test No.3 eyes further white-ball opportunities
Let Usman be Usman, says Watson
Shane Watson had some advice for Australian selectors after Usman Khawaja set up the Sydney Thunder's emphatic KFC BBL win over the Melbourne Stars: let Usman be Usman.
The Test No.3, who hasn't featured in ODIs since January last year and played his last international T20 match in 2016, struck 44 runs from 26 balls including nine fours at the MCG.
Khawaja's difficulties against spin are well-documented but some questioned his place in the Test team altogether before his commanding 171 in the fifth Magellan Ashes Test in Sydney.
The 31-year-old still harbours ambitions to represent his country in all three formats and Watson is adamant he would excel if given the chance.
"The thing we all know about 'Uzzie' is that he's a world-class batsman whether it's Test match, one-dayers or Twenty20," Watson said.
"When he's batting with freedom, and there's no selection (questions) hanging over his head every single game then he's one of the best players in the world.
"They've just got to know how to get the best out of him because someone like 'Uzzie'... you don't just shake a tree and they fall out.
"World-class players like him don't come along that often so you've got to make sure that you get the best out of him and not have selection (questions) hanging over his head.
"He just needs to have the confidence, backing and freedom to go and do what he does."
Thunder star @Uz_Khawaja was pretty pumped to get the chance to meet Will Smith at the MCG today! #BBL07 pic.twitter.com/RAHTVjnWSD— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 20, 2018
After combining with Ashes combatant James Vince in the Thunder's commanding seven-wicket win over the hapless Stars on Saturday night, Khawaja reiterated his desire to return to Australia's one-day side.
But the left-hander is under no illusions as to however difficult a task that may be, with the likes of Aaron Finch, David Warner and Steve Smith all featuring in Australia's ODI top-order.
"I'd love to be playing ODI cricket, I'd love to be playing any game for Australia," Khawaja told cricket.com.au. "I've scored a lot of runs in white ball cricket over the last few years.
"It's hard – you've got 'Finchy' scoring runs, 'Davey' has been an outstanding player, and 'Smudge' (Smith) is one of the best players in the world. There's not a lot of spots (up for grabs).
Asked if next year's ODI World Cup remains a target, Khawaja responded: "Absolutely, I want to be part of it.
"I've never been part of a one-day World Cup. I'm not out there trying to take anyone's position (but) my goal is to play cricket consistently (for Australia)."
Set a modest target of 148 runs for victory by the Stars on Saturday, the Thunder's opening pair of Khawaja and Vince put on a quick-fire 85-run partnership off just 8.2 overs as the visitors stormed to 3-149 from 16.1 overs.
The opening stand set the platform for skipper Watson to blast his side to victory with an unbeaten 49 from 28 balls.
The win was a big boost for the Thunder's slim BBL Finals chances. Watson's side improved from seventh to fifth while giving their net run rate a shot in the arm.
The Thunder next host the Melbourne Renegades on Wednesday night in Canberra, with Khawaja's involvement under a cloud having suffered a thumb injury against the Stars.
"Scans to Usman's left thumb have ruled out a fracture, however there remains significant bruising," Sydney Thunder physiotherapist Murray Ryan said.
"He will continue to be monitored by Sydney Thunder's medical team throughout the week."
- with AAP