ISLAMABAD (Reuters) – Australia batsman Usman Khawaja says there will probably be no room for sentiment when the primary ball is bowled within the opening check in opposition to Pakistan this week, although he acknowledges will probably be “very particular” to play within the nation of his delivery.
Born in Islamabad, Khawaja was four-years-old when his dad and mom moved to Sydney. The 35-year-old is a part of the Australia group on their first tour of Pakistan in 24 years.
“The undeniable fact that I’m enjoying in Pakistan is particular, do not get me incorrect, it is very particular,” the left-hander instructed a digital information convention.
“It’s one thing I’ve at all times needed to do. I grew up down the highway.
“There is that little bit of sentiment undoubtedly, however as soon as the sport begins you do not actually take into consideration that stuff.”
Khawaja earned his place on the tour after his twin a whole bunch in Sydney in opposition to England in what was his first check in additional than two years.
“I’ve performed for such a very long time now. I’ve been out of the group, I’m again within the group — each sport for me now for Australia is only a bonus,” he mentioned.
Khawaja, whose a whole bunch in Sydney got here at quantity 5, is about to open Australia’s innings with fellow left-hander David Warner.
While he expects to obtain a heat welcome in Rawalpindi, Karachi and Lahore, Khawaja additionally thought Pakistan followers would present their appreciation for the standard cricket of the guests.
“I’ve bought loads of assist right here in Pakistan at all times. I believe they will assist me, they will hope I get runs, however they’ll be hoping Australia get smashed on the similar time,” he mentioned with a smile.
“It’s going to be a kind of Catch-22s.
“But I don’t anticipate a hostile crowd. Pakistanis love their cricket, and so they respect good cricket, and I believe that’s what they’d be hoping for.”
The first check begins on Friday in Rawalpindi.
(Reporting by Amlan Chakraborty in New Delhi; modifying by Peter Rutherford)
