India, Jan. 3 -- Stand-in Australia Test skipper Steve Smith threw his support behind Usman Khawaja amid the debate over his golfing sessions, after the veteran opener addressed the criticism while announcing his retirement. Khawaja discussed the racism he faced throughout his career and addressed the backlash for playing three days of golf before the Perth Ashes Test, where he later suffered back spasms and was unable to open the batting for Australia in the second innings.

Smith came out in defence of Khawaja, brushing aside the criticism around the opener's preparation. The Aussie skipper emphasised on Khawaja's professionalism and consistency over the years, arguing that the scrutiny linking his golf session to the Perth Test injury ...