Khawaja joins Bradman as only other Aussie aged over 38 to hit Test double ton

IANS January 30, 2025 402 views

Usman Khawaja just delivered an absolutely incredible performance in the first Test against Sri Lanka. He smashed a stunning double-century, joining the legendary Don Bradman in a super exclusive club of Australian cricketers. His unbeaten 208 not only broke several records but also showcased his exceptional batting prowess. The innings was a masterclass in concentration and skill, proving why Khawaja remains a crucial player for the Australian team.

"A magnificent knock that etches my name alongside legends" - Usman Khawaja (implied)
Khawaja joins Bradman as only other Aussie aged over 38 to hit Test double ton
Galle, Jan 30: Usman Khawaja etched his name alongside the legendary Donald Bradman by becoming only the second Australian aged over 38 to score a Test double-century. The Aussie opener Khawaja struck his maiden double hundred in Test cricket on day two of the first Test against Sri Lanka here on Thursday.

Key Points

1

Khawaja becomes second Australian over 38 to hit Test double ton

2

First Australian to score double century in Sri Lanka

3

Breaks multiple historic batting records

4

Exceptional partnership with Steve Smith drives Australia's total

Khawaja is also the only Australian man to hit a double century in Sri Lanka. He had earlier overtaken Justin Langer's 166 in Colombo in 2004 as the highest score by an Australian in Sri Lanka.

Moreover, he became the first Australian to score a double-ton in Asia since Jason Gillespie's famous 201 not out against Bangladesh in 2006. The others to score double ton in Tests are Matthew Hayden (201 not out vs India in Chennai), Dean Jones (210 vs India in the 1986 Madras tied Test), Greg Chappell (235 v Pakistan in Faisalabad in 1980 and Mark Taylor (334no against Pakistan in Peshawar in 1998).

Australia are currently batting at 482/3 with Khawaja (208*) and debutant Josh Inglis (47*) unbeaten in the middle.

Australia resumed on 330/2 with play starting 15 minutes early after rain ended day one prematurely. Khawaja and captain Steve Smith carried on from where they left off the previous evening, combining for a 266-run stand for the third wicket, Australia's highest Test partnership in Sri Lanka.

The visitors passed 400-run mark with an overthrow from a missed run-out chance at the non-striker's end, which would have seen Khawaja depart for 177. Leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay broke the marathon stand in the 100th over when Jeffrey Vandersay trapped Smith for 141.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Cricket Test Cricket Usman Khawaja Steve Smith Sri Lanka Australia