Take Greg's advice, not Chappelli: Khawaja
Usman Khawaja has made light of Ian Chappell's stinging critique as the selection race for the Ashes intensifies, quipping he would prefer to take advice from the legend's younger brother Greg.
Khawaja hasn't played for Australia since being axed during the 2019 Ashes.
But the veteran has started this Sheffield Shield season in dominant form and is certain to be part of Australia's star-studded trial match in Brisbane on December 1-3, which selectors will use to finalise the Test squad.
There is a push for Khawaja to open alongside David Warner when the Ashes begin in Brisbane on December 8.
The 34-year-old noted on the eve of Queensland's Shield clash with Western Australia at the Gabba that he would happily bat anywhere in Australia's top six, but added the middle order may be a more sensible fit than opening.
Chappell recently offered a counter-argument for recalling Khawaja, claiming the left-hander was a "good player against mediocre bowling" but would struggle against England and selectors should move on.
Khawaja said the former Test skipper's analysis was "water off a duck's back" but couldn't resist a retort.
"Chappelli's not even the best player in his family," he laughed.
"So if I'm going to take advice, I might take it from his younger brother.
"Who I get along with very well too, GC (Greg Chappell) is a legend.
"Chappelli will have his opinions. As a player you have to concentrate on the things you're good at."
Khawaja averages almost 100 in seven Test innings as an opener, highlighting why many feel he should face the new ball.
But the batter's recent purple patch - dating to the end of the 2020-21 season - has come while stationed at second drop for the Bulls.
"For me, if there's a spot at five then it's as likely as opening. It probably makes more sense in some respects," Khawaja told reporters in Brisbane.
"I've talked to selectors about it, I've told them I can bat anywhere in the order.
"But in saying that, there's a lot of good players out there."
Khawaja reiterated he was not stewing over selectors' thoughts or his hopes of a recall, having learned a long time ago that it could only have negative repercussions.
"I'm really enjoying life at the moment. I've got a lot of things to be grateful for," he said.
"If it does happen, great.
"If it doesn't, I'll still be out there giving my 100 per cent for whoever.
"I don't want to get too far ahead of myself."
Queensland are set to recall Michael Neser and Mark Steketee, two pacemen highly regarded by national selectors, for this week's Gabba clash.
Test skipper Tim Paine is still recovering from neck surgery and will miss Tasmania's Shield match against South Australia in Hobart, which also starts on Tuesday.
