Usman Khawaja stars, Australia sky high in Test match against England

Sydney, January 6

Usman Khawaja’s ninth Test century lifted Australia to an imposing 416/8 declared before England’s openers survived a nervous five overs to be 13 without loss at the end of the second day of the fourth Ashes Test.

Playing his first Test since 2019 and only in the team because of Travis Head’s positive test for Covid, Khawaja made the most of the opportunity as he first shared a century partnership with Steve Smith and then anchored Australia’s innings with his 137 from 260 balls after England’s bowlers fought back with the second new ball today.

“I’ve put a lot of hard work in,” Khawaja said. “A lot of time behind the scenes that people don’t see. You never take anything for granted. Never sure I was going to represent Australia again, never mind scoring a hundred. I’m very grateful for another opportunity.” — AP