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Khawaja: my hamstrings are stronger now

Usman Khawaja helped get the Aussies off to a blistering start.

Usman Khawaja helped get the Aussies off to a blistering start.

Australian batsman Usman Khawaja dispelled any doubts over his fitness with a stunning Big Bash Century, then declared his hamstrings were as strong as they have been in three years.

Khawaja’s place for the Boxing Day Test against the West Indies had been in some doubt, after he injured his hamstring during the second Test against New Zealand at the WACA.

Khawaja wows in Big Bash return
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But following his match-winning turn for the Sydney Thunder against the Melbourne Stars at the MCG on Sunday, the 29-year-old said he is 100 per cent ready to resume in Tests.

“I was very happy to get through the game and even happier to win,” Khawaja said on Monday.

“Scoring 100 in a T20 game is not easy and I feel really good today.

“My hamstring is definitely stronger than it has been for the last three years.

“The last testing I did on Friday was a hamstring strength test and my hamstrings came up stronger than they have been for the last three years.”

But Khawaja said he was not taking his place in the side for granted, with the Aussies in good form heading into the clash with the Windies.

“I’m in the squad but I haven’t been selected for yet,” Khawaja said.

“I just had to go out and go 100 per cent, prove my fitness and get a win, so I’ve ticked both those boxes.

“If I got to play, it would be a dream come true.

“Whether you’re from Melbourne or Sydney, I think it’s the biggest Test of the year.

“But there is still a bit of work to do and a bit of time between now and then, so I’m trying not to look too far ahead.”

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