NEW DELHI: Australia's opening batsman, Usman Khawaja, has been given the green light to return to training and play in the second Test against West Indies in Brisbane.
The 37-year-old cricketer retired hurt in the final overs of the first Test after being struck on the helmet by a delivery from West Indies' Shamar Joseph.
In a statement released on Monday, the team confirmed Khawaja's clearance, stating, "Usman Khawaja has been cleared to play the second test match against the West Indies in Brisbane. Khawaja was assessed again today and has no symptoms of delayed concussion. He will train at the Gabba tomorrow."
Khawaja's return is a relief for Australia, as they faced the possibility of searching for a new opener for the second time in the series if he had been unfit to play.
Steve Smith had moved up the order to replace David Warner, who retired from the format after the 3-0 series sweep against Pakistan.
The second Test between Australia and West Indies is scheduled to be a day-night match at the Gabba and is set to begin on Thursday.
With Khawaja's clearance, Australia can maintain the opening partnership they had in the first Test, providing stability at the top of the order.
(With inputs from Reuters)
