Back spasms stopped Khawaja opening - Cummins
- Published
Usman Khawaja was off the field because of back spasms when he was prevented from fulfilling his role as opener, says Australia captain Pat Cummins.
The 38-year-old left-hander was off the field towards the end of England's innings on day one of the first Ashes Test in Perth, meaning he was not allowed to bat in his usual position until a set time had passed.
With Marnus Labuschagne promoted to open, debutant Jake Weatherald took the strike in Khawaja's place and was pinned lbw by Jofra Archer second ball.
"[Khawaja] had some back spams in the field so came off and had a bit of treatment," Cummins said.
"He got on the wrong side of the timings, a few quick ones at the end [England wickets] meant he couldn't bat."
Khawaja eventually came out to bat after the fall of the second wicket - Marnus Labuschagne playing onto his stumps for nine - but was caught behind for two off Brydon Carse.
Australia ended day one on 123-9, still 49 runs behind England.