'Warner and Smith are heroes in my mind, they've paid their dues' - Usman Khawaja on Mitchell Johnson's 'hero send-off' remark

Usman Khawaja strongly defended David Warner against Mitchell Johnson's critique, affirming Warner as a seasoned campaigner who's endured the consequences of the Sandpaper incident. Johnson's remarks questioning Warner's farewell in the third Test against Pakistan were dismissed by Khawaja, praising the Australian opener as a stalwart and highlighting his redemption journey. He asserted his status as a hero within the team, signaling unwavering support for his teammate amid external scrutiny.

Johnson highlighted Warner's alleged failure to fully acknowledge his involvement in the Sandpaper incident that led to a year-long ban. Expressing scepticism over honoring a player central to a significant cricket scandal, Johnson questioned the justification for the Southpaw's grand farewell. In contrast, Khawaja vehemently opposed Johnson's stance, supporting Warner and emphasizing a differing viewpoint. He asserted 37-year-old's right to be respected and lauded for his contributions despite past controversies.

"Davey Warner and Steve Smith are heroes in my mind. They missed a year of cricket through dark times in Australian cricket but they have paid their dues. No one is perfect. Mitchell Johnson isn't perfect. I am not perfect. Steve Smith is not perfect. David Warner isn't perfect. What they have done for the game and to grow the game far outweighs anything else they have done. So for [Johnson] to imply that Dave Warner or anyone else involved in [the] Sandpaper [incident] is not a hero, I strongly disagree with because I believe they have paid their dues," Khwaja said as quoted by ESPNCricinfo.

Khawaja dismisses Johnson’s allegations of Warner being favoured by Geroge Bailey

The 36-year-old disagreed with former Australia pacer's views on George Bailey's proximity to Warner and the team, praising Bailey's impact as a refreshing change in the selector's role. Highlighting his tenure, the Islamabad born cricketer pointed out Australia's triumphs in the Ashes, successful retentions, and multiple victories in prestigious tournaments like the T20 World Cup, World Test Championship, and ODI World Cup under Bailey's stewardship. He credited the 41-year-old for the team's achievements, countering Johnson's critique.

The southpaw commended Coach Andrew McDonald's impact while addressing McDonald's suggestion on SEN regarding Marnus Labuschagne as Warner's Test opening replacement. He remained neutral on the choice but stressed the importance of selecting a consistent opener for the role, regardless of personal preferences, indicating a focus on someone accustomed to that position.