Khawaja leaves Derbyshire for Australia A

Derbyshire batsman Usman Khawaja has been called up by Australia A for their tour to Zimbabwe.

He will play the Championship match against Kent before heading off to the Australia A training camp on June 6 which precedes the Zimbabwe series.

Though much was expected of Khawaja, who made his Test debut against England during the Ashes, he has not managed to make a half-century in six Championship innings so far, averaging 24.66. Despite struggling to find his best form he said: "I have enjoyed my time with Derbyshire immensely and wish the team luck and success for the remainder of the season.

"It is a shame that I won't be able to complete my scheduled spell in the UK but naturally I am looking forward to the A Tour and the opportunity of furthering my claims for international honours."

Derbyshire captain Luke Sutton said: "I speak for everybody here at Derbyshire when I say good luck to Usman who has been a very popular member of the team during his short spell with the Club. We are delighted that he gets this opportunity to further his claims for a place in the full Australia team."