A prominent figure in Australian cricket history, Usman Khawaja, renowned for his remarkable innings as an opening batsman, is set to become a permanent addition to the Fox Cricket commentary team after he hangs up his playing gear. This announcement was made in the company of Australian Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins, accomplished ODI batsman Glenn Maxwell, and cricket legend and Fox Cricket commentator Adam Gilchrist, during a media event hosted by Kayo Sports at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The event aimed to provide insights into the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Khawaja, who will join Fox Cricket’s esteemed lineup of experts, will offer his analysis and insights across a series of special shows throughout the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and will continue to be featured in the upcoming cricket season. Subsequently, he is expected to transition to a full-time role within the commentary team following his retirement from active play. This move mirrors the footsteps of his fellow opening batsman and close friend, David Warner, who recently became a part of the Fox Cricket team.
Sharing his enthusiasm for this new venture, Khawaja stated, “I have a deep affection for cricket and thoroughly enjoy dissecting the intricacies of the game. Staying connected to cricket beyond my playing days has always been a priority, and joining the commentary team feels like a natural progression. Growing up, Fox Sports was a staple in my daily routine, making this association even more special to me. Collaborating with an exceptional team of commentators, including my friend Dave Warner, is incredibly exciting, and I am eagerly looking forward to it.”
Fox Sports Executive Director, Steve Crawley, praised Khawaja’s extensive experience and forthrightness, stating, “Usman is a cricketer admired for his resilience and influence worldwide. He possesses a strong perspective and isn’t hesitant to express it. Witnessing the dynamic between him and David Warner within our commentary box will undoubtedly be a treat for fans.”
The Fox Cricket lineup for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in Sydney will include renowned cricket figures such as Brendon Julian, Mark Waugh, Kerry O’Keeffe, and Brad Haddin. Additionally, the coverage will feature live interactions with cricket experts Michael Vaughan, Ravi Shastri, Wasim Akram, Harsha Bhogle, and Ian Smith located in India. Leading up to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, Fox Cricket will present a one-hour preview show and a special retrospective hour, revisiting significant moments from past tournaments. In-depth analysis shows are planned before each Australian match and selected high-stake encounters.
For cricket enthusiasts, Kayo Sports is offering an alternate Hindi commentary option for all India matches, including the semi-finals and finals. Moreover, Kayo Minis will provide concise highlights of every match in the tournament.
The upcoming months are set to offer a cricket-packed schedule, with the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, the Women’s T20 and ODI series against the West Indies, and the commencement of the Weber Women’s Big Bash League. Fans can enjoy live broadcasts of the women’s international series and the Weber WBBL on Fox Sports, available through Foxtel and Kayo Sports. In anticipation of these events, the Asia Cup will also be broadcast live on Fox Sports and Kayo Sports, offering Hindi commentary for every match involving India, along with the final. Scheduled from August 31 to September 17, the Asia Cup will take place in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Subsequently, the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, running from October 5 to November 19, will be showcased exclusively on Foxtel and Kayo Sports.