Brisbane, Nov. 28 -- Australian opener Usman Khawaja broke his silence for the first time after experiencing back spasms during the first Ashes Test at Perth, which prevented him from opening in both innings. His sole batting outing in the match was a single-digit score.

Ahead of the Test at Brisbane from December 4 onwards, the form and fitness of 38-year-old Khawaja are serious concerns. At Perth, he was not able to open in both innings and failed to score well in his only attempt with the bat at number four. He also dropped an easy catch at slips before leaving the field in England's second innings.

Speaking for the first time after his back concerns, Khawaja said he was on strong medicines for his back spasms before opening for his ...