Lehmann backs Khawaja to bat at No. 3

Johannesburg, Nov.2 : Expressing his views on Australian new number three Usman Khawaja, coach Darren Lehmann said the former is a great technician and it is right time for him to perform at that spot.

Lavishing praise on Khawaja, Lehmann said the 28-year-old has been performing quite well at the number three spot for his state (Queensland), adding that it would be great opportunity for him, Sport24 reported.

Lehmann, however, said it doesn’t matter too much as Khawaja had great success both at the number three and fourth position in the batting line-up.

Earlier, skipper Steven Smith was moved down to No.4 for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand.

The move will see experienced batsmen David Warner and Smith providing support to inexperienced opener Joe Burns and Khawaja.

Khawaja, who is aware about conditions at Gabba, has scored 839 runs at 69.92, including three centuries in Sheffield Shield matches.

Australia will play three Tests against New Zealand at their home soil, starting from November 5 at the Gabba, Brisbane. (ANI)