Usman Khawaja Scores Maiden Double Century Against Sri Lanka

Usman Khawaja scored a maiden double century and Josh Inglis made a century on debut as Australia took control of the first test against Sri Lanka.

Australia has taken control of the opening test against Sri Lanka, thanks to impressive performances from Usman Khawaja and Josh Inglis. Khawaja scored a maiden double century, striking 232 runs, while Inglis made a century on his test debut, powering Australia to a massive 654 for six before declaring their first innings on day two.

Khawaja's marathon innings was marked by century-plus partnerships with Steve Smith and Inglis, propelling Australia to their highest test total in Asia. Smith, the stand-in skipper, contributed 141 runs, while Inglis smashed 102 runs off 94 balls, as Australia dominated the proceedings at the Galle International Stadium.

Sri Lanka's response was lackluster, as they slumped to 44-3 before rain interrupted play, leaving them 610 runs behind and facing the possibility of a follow-on. Kamindu Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal will resume Sri Lanka's battle for survival on Friday, with Mendis on 13 and Chandimal on nine.

An amazing knock comes to an end.

Usman Khawaja, 38-years-young #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/dWQ4StniNJ

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 30, 2025

Sri Lanka's struggles were compounded by their sloppy use of reviews on Wednesday, when they failed to overturn two not-out decisions against Australian batters. However, they finally got one right on Thursday, successfully reviewing an lbw decision against Smith, which led to his dismissal. Inglis also had a close call, but his lbw decision was overturned after a review revealed he had nicked the ball.

Usman Khawaja achieved a significant milestone, bringing up his 200 with a single off spinner Prabath Jayasuriya. The 38-year-old Australian batter celebrated in style, bowing to the turf and sharing a warm hug with teammate Josh Inglis.

Usman Khawaja is the third-oldest to score a Test double-hundred in the 21st century ✨ #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/30YwjkqoRj

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) January 30, 2025

Khawaja's impressive innings was marked by his effective strategy against Sri Lanka's spin-heavy attack. He frequently employed the sweep and reverse sweep shots, often charging out to deny the bowlers any rhythm. This approach ultimately paid off, as Khawaja scored a stellar 232, including 16 fours and a six, before being caught behind off Jayasuriya.

🚨 USMAN KHAWAJA DOUBLE CENTURY 🚨

It's the first of his Test career and the first ever by an Australian in Sri Lanka! pic.twitter.com/6rd10XfKfe

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) January 30, 2025

Josh Inglis also had a day to remember, racing to a 90-ball century and celebrating with unbridled joy. As he punched the air in delight, his parents proudly applauded from the stands, savoring the moment. Leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay, meanwhile, had a challenging day, conceding 182 runs in his 38 overs while claiming three wickets.