AUS vs SA: Usman Khawaja completes 4000 runs in Test cricket

Usman Khawaja with Marnus Labuschagne [Source: AP]

Australian opener Usman Khawaja has started the new year with a bang, breaching the 4000-run mark in Test cricket. 

The stylish southpaw became the 27th Australian batter to achieve this feat, as he stroked a gorgeous knock on the first day of the third Test against South Africa in Sydney. 

Despite being an extremely talented batter, Khawaja used to be in and out of the side frequently until 2019. The fact that Australia have always had a formidable batting lineup explains why the 36-year-old, debuted in 2011, played only 44 Tests until 2022. 

However, he has grabbed the opportunity with both hands since being given a consistent run from the last year. He enjoyed stellar success in 2022, finishing the year as Australia's most successful Test batter with 1080 runs at a magnificent average of 67.50. 

Despite being an opener, he bettered the likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, which speaks volumes for his red hot form in the purest format. 

Regarding the game, Australia, after opting to bat first, are cruising towards another massive total. After David Warner fell prey to Anrich Nortje cheaply, Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne executed a commendable resurrection. 

As of writing, the hosts are 138 for one, with Khawaja and Labuschagne unbeaten on 51 and 73, respectively. 

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