cricketAustraliaSouth AfricaTestKhawaja
Khawaja Urges Kuhnemann as Australia Stands 2-1 in Final Test Battle
Published: October 25, 2026
Usman Khawaja urges selectors to pick Matt Kuhnemann as Australia sits 2-1 ahead of the final Test. The move could tip the balance, as South Africa seek to overturn the deficit.
Khawaja called on selectors to slot Matt Kuhnemann into the final Test line‑up, after Australia trailed 2‑1 in the series.
Kuhnemann, who has delivered a five‑wicket haul in his five Tests and grabbed 16 wickets on the recent Sri Lanka tour, can trouble South Africa’s right‑handers with his left‑arm spin.
Last week’s loss saw Australia drop Nathan Lyon for the Gqeberha Test, replace him with fast bowler Scott Boland, who claimed five wickets but the team still collapsed to an innings and 31‑run defeat.
Selectors now wrestle with batting order, debating whether Nic Maddinson should open or slot into the middle, and how to re‑integrate Cam Green after injury. The final Test in Cape Town will decide whether the hosts can close the gap or let the series slip away.