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'Stinker': Usman Khawaja's nightmare start in bid for Test return

Usman Khawaja of Queensland looks dejected after losing his wicket during day one of the Sheffield Shield match between Queensland and New South Wales. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)
Usman Khawaja of Queensland looks dejected after losing his wicket during day one of the Sheffield Shield match between Queensland and New South Wales. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

Dropped Australian Test batsman Usman Khawaja fell for just one as Queensland crept to 2-53 at lunch in their Sheffield Shield opener against New South Wales at the Gabba.

The Bulls captain, coming off consecutive one-day hundreds for his state, threw his head back when trapped lbw by Harry Conway midway through the first session on Thursday.

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Many fans on social media slammed the LBW decision labelling it a “stinker” and a “clanger”.

Joe Burns, also pressing for selection in next month's first Test against Pakistan in Brisbane departed for 13 after he and opener Matthew Renshaw had absorbed a lengthy period of pressure for the relentlessly accurate Sean Abbott (1-2 from six overs).

Renshaw, also gunning for a Test recall, was unbeaten on 18 as was incumbent Australian No.3 Marnus Labuschagne at lunch.

Mitchell Starc (0-31 from nine overs) benefited from terrific carry as he pushed for a wicket while Steve Smith, in his first Shield clash since serving his suspension for ball-tampering, also bowled two wicketless overs.

David Warner is also returning to Shield action and will be keen for runs after Australian selector Trevor Hohns admitted spots were up for grabs ahead of the series against Pakistan.

Warner made just 95 runs at 9.5 in the Ashes series in England, while fellow opener Marcus Harris also failed to cement his spot in the side to leave the race for a berth on November 21 wide open.