Usman Khawaja reaches 8,000 international runs

Australian dough Usman Khawaja made history on Friday when he completed 8,000 international runs. The personal milestone came during the Boxing Day Ashes Test at the MCG.

Khawaja’s personal milestone

The 39-year-old hit 29 from 52 balls before hitting a Gus Atkinson delivery to wicketkeeper Jamie Smith. Although it was a promising start, he once again failed to convert it into a bigger score.

However, it was enough for Khawaja to complete 8,000 runs in international cricket. He now occupies the 19th position on Australia all-time international runs chart with 8,001 runs in 136 matches. He averages over 42 and has hit 18 centuries and 41 half-centuries.

Talking about his Test numbers, out of 87 Tests, he has accumulated 6,206 runs at 43.70. His ODI record is equally respectable, with 1,554 runs in 40 matches at an average of 42, while his short T20I stint produced 241 runs in nine matches.

Chance to play Sydney in the XI

In progress Ashes SeriesKhawaja’s campaign was mixed. During the Perth Test he had a back problem. He was subsequently ruled out of the Brisbane pink ball Test. He came back strongly in Adelaide with scores of 82 and 40. With one more round to play at the MCG, he still has an opportunity to strengthen his case ahead of the final Test.

Bowling brilliance on day one

Earlier, England had quickly made an impact with the ball. Australia lost wickets at regular intervals, slipping to 51/4 in the first 20 overs. Atkinson struck first, removing Head, before Josh Tongue dismantled the middle order, dismissing Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith in quick succession.

Khawaja and Alex Carey combined to stabilize the innings and guide Australia to the first break at 72/4. Although England dominated the opening session, Khawaja’s milestone was a personal highlight in a difficult morning for the hosts.

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