Warner Backs Khawaja Opener Role for Adelaide Test

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CFLL Staff

Published on

12 Dec 2025 | 10:30 am
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Picture Credit: PTI Photo

Veteran Australian opening batsman David Warner has publicly declared his firm backing for a significant alteration to the team's batting lineup, specifically targeting the highly anticipated Adelaide Ashes Test. Warner's strong endorsement highlights a potential strategic adjustment in player roles, advocating for the return of a proven top-order performer to a key position within the squad for the upcoming match.

 

The experienced left-hander, a stalwart at the top of the order himself, clearly articulated his preference for Usman Khawaja to step back into the demanding role of opener. Khawaja has previously excelled in this capacity in Test cricket, and Warner’s proposition indicates a deliberate consideration for his reintroduction right at the very start of the innings for the high-stakes Adelaide fixture against England.

 

Warner's Endorsement for Khawaja

 

Warner's proposed vision for the team structure also encompasses a consequential adjustment involving another key middle-order batsman, Travis Head. According to Warner’s suggested tactical revamp, Head would be shifted down the batting order to assume the pivotal No. 5 position. This move is designed to accommodate Khawaja's advocated return as an opener for the crucial Test match in Adelaide, balancing the squad.

 

The suggestion by David Warner to see Usman Khawaja back opening the innings for the Adelaide Ashes Test underscores a notable strategic preference for the second Test of the marquee series. This advocated change would signal a clear intent regarding the top-order composition, aiming for a specific combination of batsmen to confront the English bowling attack under the unique conditions of Adelaide.

 

Strategic Batting Order Adjustment

 

Warner’s explicit backing of Usman Khawaja for the opening slot specifically for the Adelaide Ashes Test solidifies a belief in Khawaja's substantial capabilities to perform effectively at the very top of the order. This endorsement from a prominent teammate like Warner could certainly influence discussions among the national selectors regarding the final playing XI for the much-anticipated day-night contest in South Australia.

 

The strategic rearrangement, which involves Travis Head transitioning to the No. 5 position, indicates a careful consideration of balance and depth within the batting lineup. This particular shift aims to further fortify the team's middle order and provide consistent stability through different phases of the innings, as championed by David Warner's thoughtful input on optimal team dynamics for the Ashes series.

 

Outlook for the Adelaide Ashes Test

 

Ultimately, David Warner's public statement puts forward a clear blueprint for the Australian batting order ahead of the Adelaide Ashes Test. His support for Usman Khawaja returning as opener and Travis Head moving to No. 5 represents a well-considered tactical approach, potentially shaping the team's strategy and providing a fresh dynamic for the critical second Test of the prestigious Ashes series.