Usman Khawaja has written, or perhaps dictated, his support for Matthew Renshaw. He thinks the 29-year-old batsman has shown enough character to be worthy of a return to the Australian Test side. A more direct mentor to Renshaw has been experienced opener Khawaja. He’s persuaded that the Queensland opener has the mental toughness and talent to thrive at the top level.
Renshaw, who has played 14 Test matches for Australia, has undergone significant successes and pitfalls during his cricketing journey. He just recently displayed that promise with a wonderful century in the Sheffield Shield, Australia’s first-class competition. He played remarkably well in Australia’s One Day International (ODI) matches. This month, Renshaw produced three special performances to push his ODI cases. His commanding form makes a clear case for inclusion in the Test team.
Khawaja sought to emphasize Renshaw’s incredible evolution over the past few months. He noted that Renshaw has redirected his attention from outside criticism regarding his play.
“It doesn’t surprise me that he’s deleted the CA app and is not looking at the paper. That is straight out of the Khawaja manual,” – Usman Khawaja.
The man who’s helped Renshaw successfully navigate those career crescendos and valleys has, of course, been Khawaja. He continued, noting how both players have prioritized enjoyment and performance over outside expectations.
“I haven’t done it for six years now and I am glad he has gone the same way. I was the same. I was worried about everyone else but then I started worrying about myself and enjoying life for what it is and started playing a lot better,” – Usman Khawaja.
The former-record-holding Test batsman praised Renshaw’s mental approach at the moment and knows that he is in his most dangerous form yet. Khawaja had previously described him as the type of player who really enhances the energy in a team environment.
“He brings a lot of energy, so hopefully he will be back,” – Usman Khawaja.
Khawaja pumped up the Renshaw-inclined Queensland top-order’s potential to shine during the forthcoming Ashes series. He instilled belief in them that they had what it took to play winning football at the highest level.
“Queensland … one, two and three would be great,” – Usman Khawaja.
I reckon Marnus Labuschagne numero 3, Steve Smith 4 and Head’s gotta be 5. He believes that this particular lineup will provide the team with the best opportunities to win.
With Renshaw’s refined approach to training, he is reportedly hitting fewer balls and resting his mind more. Khawaja believes the opener’s changes will pay dividends.
“He is hitting less balls (in training) than he ever has. He is not hitting balls before the game in the morning. He was usually in there for an hour but he is giving his brain a bit more of a rest,” – Usman Khawaja.
Renshaw sets himself up for being selected in the next Ashes series. At the same time, Khawaja can’t help but wish that his mentee will find his way onto the Australian team himself. Renshaw’s recent performances and improved mindset suggest he is ready to seize this opportunity and contribute significantly to Australia’s campaign.
