Australia batter Usman Khawaja savours ‘particular’ Pakistan collection: I don’t anticipate a hostile crowd

Usman Khawaja is delighted to be a part of Australia’s historic tour of Pakistan however says that there can be no room for sentiment when the primary ball is bowled within the opening Test in opposition to the Babar Azam-led facet.

However, Khawaja, who was born in Islamabad and moved to Australia when he was simply 4 years previous, acknowledges will probably be “very special” to play within the nation of his start.

“The fact that I’m playing in Pakistan is special, don’t get me wrong, it’s very special,” the left-hander instructed a digital information convention.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I grew up down the road.

“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 hundreds in Sydney against England in what was his first test in more 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 said.

Khawaja, whose hundreds in Sydney came at number five, is set to open Australia’s innings with fellow left-hander David Warner. While he expects to receive a warm welcome in Rawalpindi, Karachi and Lahore, Khawaja also thought Pakistan fans would show their appreciation for the quality cricket of the visitors.

“I’ve received lots of assist right here in Pakistan all the time. 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 said with a smile.

“It’s going to be a kind of Catch-22s.

“But I don’t expect a hostile crowd. Pakistanis love their cricket, and they appreciate good cricket, and I think that’s what they’d be hoping for.”

The first Test begins on Friday in Rawalpindi.