Shaheen and Warner’s recent meeting exemplified the true essence of the Spirit of Cricket, according to Usman Khawaja.

In a recent interview, Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja reflected on the latest Australia-Pakistan series, emphasizing the admirable sportsmanship demonstrated during the Lahore Test confrontation between Shaheen Shah Afridi and David Warner.

Khawaja praised the overall success of the series, both on and off the field, highlighting Shaheen’s exceptional performance in the Lahore test and Warner’s impressive play. Even upon Warner’s dismissal, Khawaja noted the friendly pat on the shoulders and a smile from Shaheen, deeming it a true embodiment of the spirit of cricket. According to Khawaja, this camaraderie is precisely what Australians value – playing hard on the field and maintaining friendly relations off it.

Expressing his admiration for the Pakistani team, Khawaja lauded their batting prowess and the strength of their fast-bowling attack, considering it the most robust batting lineup in recent times. He specifically commended Babar Azam as one of the world’s best batsmen and expressed excitement about the upcoming challenge.

Drawing parallels between the anticipated clash of batting titans, Babar Azam and Steve Smith, Khawaja likened it to the excitement of matching Smith with Kohli. He acknowledged Babar’s consistency in scoring runs both at home and overseas, emphasizing his ability to perform in diverse conditions.

Khawaja also recognized the formidable challenge posed by Pakistan’s fast bowlers, citing Shaheen Shah and Mitchell Starc as potent forces capable of reaching speeds up to 145. In Australian conditions, he acknowledged the difficulty for openers when faced with swinging deliveries, expressing that such challenges are what players aspire to overcome and thrive upon.