Ashes 1st Test Day 2: Usman Khwaja leads the Aussie fightback, Smashes his 15th Test Ton
On a batting paradise where most of the Aussie batters have struggled to get going, Usman Khwaja has scored an incredible hundred that is full of grit, determination, hard work, passion, incredible shot selection, and scoring runs all over the ground.
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The Aussies were 78/3 at lunch and in a state of trouble when Khwaja and Head decided to take on Moeen Ali and score runs quickly. They were successful in stitching together an 81-run partnership when a rash shot ended Head’s stay at the crease before tea.
Batters have lost their wickets at the other end, but Usman Khwaja has been absolutely sensational at the other end. He has stood like a rock in difficult phases and pounced hard on the loose and the bad balls. The best thing about his century has been the way he has silently scored runs and meant business. He has hardly looked in trouble in his stay at the crease till now.
15th Test hundred for Usman Khawaja 🔥#Ashes | #WTC25 | 📝: https://t.co/ZNnKIn9jeq pic.twitter.com/IvFyu9J1H2
— ICC (@ICC) June 17, 2023
His innings of 102* off 199 balls till now has been the highlight of this match so far, and he has made a roaring comeback after a disappointing World Test Championship final. He has brilliantly attacked Moeen Ali and has been strong against spin, using a variety of shots and showcasing his quality game against spin bowling.
Khwaja has scored 12 beautiful boundaries and two massive sixes in his incredible innings till now. The southpaw is looking hungry for more, and it would be a top performance if he takes the Kangaroos to a first-innings lead in this test match with the way he is batting.
The Australians still find themselves in deep trouble as they have lost the wicket of Cam Green who was looking in phenomenal touch in his innings of 38 runs. Green was bowled to a ripper from Moeen Ali as he bowled a dream ball for any off-spinner.
The Australians still trail by England by 164 runs and this is the last recognised pair batting. There is a long tail and Cummins can bat but they would expect more from Carey and would want Khwaja to stay there for one more session at least.
