After a tough series against India, where he scored just 184 runs in 10 innings, Usman Khawaja delivered a remarkable comeback in the first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium. The 38-year-old opener played an incredible knock, scoring 232 runs—his maiden double century—and guiding Australia to a massive total of 644.
Khawaja’s innings was a display of patience, resilience, and class. He built a crucial 266-run partnership for the third wicket with stand-in captain Steve Smith, who contributed 141 runs. Later, he forged another solid stand with debutant Josh Inglis, adding 146 runs for the fourth wicket. Inglis made an impressive debut, scoring 131 runs. The Australian batting lineup dominated the Sri Lankan bowlers, putting the team in a commanding position.
With this innings, Khawaja broke a 15-year-old record set by Sachin Tendulkar. He became the oldest player—either from Sri Lanka or a visiting team—to score a double century on Sri Lankan soil after turning 38. Additionally, he became the first Australian to achieve this feat in Sri Lanka and the second-oldest Australian to score a double century, following the legendary Don Bradman, who had done so twice after turning 38.
Australia declared their first innings at 644, thanks to significant contributions from Khawaja, Smith, and Inglis. In response, Sri Lanka struggled at 44/3 by the end of Day 2. Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Matthew Kuhnemann each took a wicket, putting the hosts under immense pressure. As the game progressed, Sri Lanka found themselves at 136/5, trailing by a huge margin, with Australia firmly in control of the match.
