Khawaja in the Australian innings of the opening Ashes Test against England at Edgbaston, Usman Khawaja showcased his exceptional skills and maintained his impressive form in Test cricket. On the second day of the Test match, the talented left-handed opener played a breathtaking inning and reached the coveted milestone of a century.
This remarkable century marked his 15th century overall, showcasing his consistent run-scoring ability and his value to the Australian team. What made this achievement even more special was that it was his first century in Tests played on English soil, adding an extra layer of significance to his performance. Khawaja’s knock would have undoubtedly provided a significant boost to Australia’s total and firmly established him as a key player in the match.
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At Edgbaston, the weather was difficult because of a placid surface that made shooting challenging. Khawaja managed to stay composed, get through the challenging parts, and then take on the bowlers to reach the desired century mark. His skill and tenacity were demonstrated by his undefeated knock of 126.
Usman Khawaja’s Test match against England
Indeed, Usman Khawaja has been in outstanding form since his recall to the Australian team for the Sydney Test match against England in January 2022. Khawaja performances have been nothing short of sensational, demonstrating his immense batting prowess and consistency across different conditions and against top-notch opponents.
Khawaja’s ability to score centuries against strong teams like South Africa and England in home conditions highlights his dominance and ability to perform under pressure. Moreover, his success in challenging tours to India and Pakistan further showcases his adaptability and skill in tackling different types of pitches and bowling attacks.
His consistent run-scoring and impactful innings have not only contributed significantly to the Australian team’s success but have also solidified his position as a key player in the squad. Khawaja’s ability to consistently deliver remarkable performances against tough opponents is a testament to his talent, dedication, and hard work.
As cricket fans and pundits marvel at Khawaja’s remarkable form, there is no doubt that his contributions have been instrumental in bolstering the Australian team and elevating his stature as one of the premier batsmen in international cricket. Prior to his great inning in Birmingham, his record under English circumstances had been dismal.
Khawaja Top Records:
Khawaja now has a remarkable average of 69.88 and has accumulated 1747 runs in the 31 innings since his return, totaling 1747 runs with his century. His emotional response as he reached the milestone was clear evidence of the importance of this accomplishment.
After England declared on the first day, a move that has become uncommon but noteworthy under Ben Stokes’ captaincy, Australia started the day at 14/0. A slow start to the morning practice was swiftly overtaken by Stuart Broad’s two strikes. David Warner was bowled as a result of his inside-edged wafting drive, while Jonny Bairstow successfully caught Marnus Labuschagne after Broad’s outswinger struck him.
Then, Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja established a steady partnership of 38 runs before Ben Stokes outfielder Steve Smith for 16 off of 59 deliveries. Australia was 315 runs behind England at the time of lunch, at 78/3.
Khawaja created significant partnerships throughout the day, notably an 81-run partnership with Travis Head for the fourth wicket. Before being bowled out by Moeen Ali, Head quickly reached 50 off just 63 balls. Cameron Green (38) and Alex Carey (52 not out), who scored 91 runs together in an unbroken stand, also contributed to Khawaja’s effort.
With 199 deliveries and 12 boundaries and two sixes, Khawaja scored a century. With five wickets in hand and a deficit of just 82 runs to England’s first innings total thanks to his superb innings, Australia is in a great position.
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England was just to blame for the day’s wasted opportunity. In addition to dropping an Alex Carey catch, Jonny Bairstow failed to stump Cameron Green. Their most costly error, though, occurred when Khawaja was given a respite in the final hour.
Stuart Broad, who recorded figures of 2-49, was England’s preferred bowler. As a last-minute replacement, Moeen Ali, who had been retired, took 2-124 off 29 overs.
Usman Khawaja’s stunning century, along with significant contributions from Travis Head and Alex Carey, are largely responsible for Australia’s advantageous position as the Ashes fight heats up. England will need to refocus and make use of their opportunities to take back the match.