Ashes 2023: Usman Khawaja Joins Geoffrey Boycott For Elite Record In Test Cricket Following Win Over England In Edgbaston Test

Last Update on: June 21st, 2023 at 11:26 am

In a thrilling encounter during the opening Test of the Ashes 2023, Australia emerged victorious by a narrow margin of two wickets, thereby taking a crucial 1-0 lead in the series. It was a sensational display of resilience and determination by skipper Pat Cummins and spinner Nathan Lyon on Day 5 that ultimately sealed the win for the Australian side. However, the star of the match was undeniably the talented opening batter, Usman Khawaja.

The final day of the first Test was marred by rain, causing a delay and leading to an early lunch announcement by the umpires. As play resumed after the interruption, Usman Khawaja found himself in a tough situation as Australia lost wickets from one end. Despite the mounting pressure, Khawaja showcased incredible grit and determination as he fought valiantly to keep the Aussies in the hunt.

However, when Ben Stokes dismissed Khawaja, it seemed as though the game was slipping away from Australia’s grasp. But it was then that skipper Pat Cummins, leading from the front, took it upon himself to ensure that his team rose from the proverbial ashes and marched toward victory. With the support of the ever-reliable spinner Nathan Lyon, Cummins displayed remarkable composure and skill to guide Australia to an exhilarating triumph.

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Usman Khawaja’s contributions in the match were nothing short of outstanding. In the first innings, he displayed his class and prowess with the bat, notching up an impressive score of 141 runs. His sublime innings provided a solid foundation for Australia’s total. Even in the second innings, Khawaja continued to be the linchpin of the Australian batting line-up, keeping his team’s hopes alive in the pursuit of victory.

Usman Khawaja Joins Jeoffrey Boycott In Elite Achievement List

For his exceptional performances throughout the match, Usman Khawaja rightfully received the prestigious Player of the Match award. His consistent run-scoring and invaluable contributions under pressure were instrumental in Australia’s triumph. Notably, Khawaja’s performances also etched his name in the record books as he joined an elite list of cricketers who have batted on all five days of a Test match.

In achieving this rare feat, Khawaja became only the 13th batter in history to accomplish such a milestone. Furthermore, he became just the second cricketer, after the legendary Englishman Geoffrey Boycott, to have batted on all five days of a Test match and emerged victorious.

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Boycott, a renowned figure in English cricket, achieved this feat during the third Test of the Ashes in 1977 at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. His remarkable innings played a crucial role in England’s seven-wicket win, scoring 107 runs in the first innings and remaining unbeaten on 80 in the second.

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Usman Khawaja’s exceptional performance in the Ashes 2023 opener not only cemented his status as a star player but also highlighted his ability to thrive under pressure. His batting prowess, resilience, and unwavering determination were the driving forces behind Australia’s triumph. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Khawaja to see if he can maintain his scintillating form and continue to play a pivotal role in Australia’s series win.