Overview
- Smith, acting captain in Pat Cummins' absence, called scrutiny of Khawaja's pre-Test routines unfair, including commentary about a round of golf.
- He said Khawaja has prepared the same way for about 15 years and that it was unreasonable to single out an injury during this series.
- Khawaja missed the opening Test in Perth with back spasms, drawing sharp criticism from sections of the media and some former players.
- In a 50-minute press conference, Khawaja emphasized issues of identity and said personal attacks and stereotypes had shadowed his career.
- The Ashes concludes with the New Year's Test starting January 4 in Khawaja's hometown, which is set to be his final international match.