AUS vs WI 2nd Test: Usman Khawaja Cleared For Gabba Test After Blow On Head In Adelaide

Australia opener Usman Khawaja has been cleared to play in the second Test against West Indies after suffering a blow on his head in the Adelaide test.

Khawaja passed all his concussion protocols and will return to training on Tuesday. The 37-year-old batsman retired hurt last Friday in the final few overs of Australia's thumping 10-wicket victory in the first test after being struck on the helmet by a Shamar Joseph delivery.

"Usman Khawaja has been cleared to play the second test match against the West Indies in Brisbane," the team said in a statement on Monday.

ALSO READ: New Zealand Head Coach Provides Update On Kane Williamson's Return Ahead Of South Africa Tests

"Khawaja was assessed again today and has no symptoms of delayed concussion. He will train at the Gabba tomorrow."

Australia faced the prospect of searching for a new opener for the second time in the series if Khawaja had been unfit to play in the day-night Test, which begins at the Gabba on Thursday.

Steve Smith moved up the order to replace David Warner when the veteran opener retired from the format in the wake of the 3-0 series sweep of Pakistan around the New Year.

ALSO READ: England Team Lands In Hyderabad Ahead Of First Test Against India | Watch

Khawaja's update means Australia will remain unchanged and Matt Renshaw has to stay on the bench as the hosts look to sweep the series 2-0.

Renshaw, who is the spare batter in Australia's squad, is now likely to be allowed to feature in the BBL final for Brisbane Heat against Sydney Sixers on Wednesday if they qualify. Renshaw featured for Brisbane Heat in the Challenger final against Adelaide Strikers on Monday.

The second Test between Australia and West Indies will be played at The Gabba in Brisbane from Thursday, January 25.

(With inputs from Reuters)