Usman Khawaja has made it clear he is fully fit and ready, even as his place for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide is under debate. The veteran opener insists he still feels valued in the Australian set-up and is not thinking about retirement yet.

Khawaja says he is “100 per cent fit”

Khawaja, who will turn 39 on day two of the third Test, confirmed that his back has recovered after the spasms he suffered in Perth. Those spasms stopped him from opening in the first innings there and later forced him off the field during England’s second innings. He said he has adjusted his preparation, being more careful around long flights, recovery and workload so that the issue does not repeat.

He explained that he did not do much training immediately after flying into Adelaide, preferring to walk, stretch and build up his intensity from the next day. For him, the key is to manage the body smartly at this stage of his career, especially after long travel days.

Selection uncertainty after Head–Weatherald success

The selection question is tricky because Australia are already 2–0 up in the Ashes and the opening pair of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald has done well. Head scored a brilliant, match‑turning century in the second innings at Perth, and he and Weatherald put together fast, aggressive stands in Brisbane. That success has opened up a genuine debate: should the selectors stick with the new opening combination or go back to their original plan with Khawaja?

Khawaja said he understands that selection is not in his control, but he is relaxed about whatever decision is made. He stressed that he feels “ready to go” and is focusing on what he can control – fitness, preparation and being available if picked.

“I’m not here to hang on”

Khawaja pushed back at any talk that he is clinging on to his spot. He said he is still in the squad because the team values him and he loves playing for Australia. He highlighted his long record across formats, saying he has “gears” in his batting and has found ways to be consistent over many years, not just for one or two innings.

He added that he trains hard, does things the right way, and does not waste energy worrying about outside opinions. For him, being professional and committed to the team are what matter. As long as he feels wanted and able to compete, he is happy to keep going.

Calm mindset ahead of Adelaide

On the overall situation, Khawaja sounded very calm. He said that with age he has become better at accepting what he can and cannot control. Selection calls are out of his hands, so he is not stressing over rumours about his future. Instead, he is focusing on being ready, both mentally and physically, if his name is called for the third Test at Adelaide Oval.

With Australia 2–0 ahead in the five‑match series, the hosts are in a strong position. Whether they go back to Khawaja at the top or continue with Head and Weatherald will be one of the big talking points heading into Wednesday’s Test.