Blog/Cricket
Cricket is a game of patience, technique, and adaptability, and Usman Khawaja showcased all three during his unforgettable 200 not out against Sri Lanka in the second Test of Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka 2022 at Galle. His innings was not just about accumulating runs but also about demonstrating resilience in challenging conditions, helping Australia post a formidable total.
The Missed Milestone: A Lesson in Fate
You must have often read a memorable phrase written on the back of many vehicles: “Not before its time, and not more than destined.” This means that whatever is meant to happen at its appointed time will surely happen, and whatever is written in one’s fate will come to them in any case.
You all might remember that about a year and a half or two years ago, Australia’s Usman Khawaja was batting on 195 runs in a Test match when Australian captain Pat Cummins decided to declare the innings. Even though Khawaja was just 5 runs away from his double century, the decision was made keeping the match situation in mind. Many cricket fans may have found this disappointing at the time, but perhaps fate had only written 195 runs for him on that day. Eventually, Australia won the match.
A Knock to Remember
Galle is known for its spin-friendly pitches, where visiting teams often struggle against the Sri Lankan spinners. However, Khawaja played with supreme confidence, countering the turn with excellent footwork and a calm temperament. His innings was a testament to his ability to handle spin, making it one of the finest knocks played by an Australian batter in the subcontinent.
Key Highlights of Khawaja’s 200* vs Sri Lanka: **
- Unbeaten 200 runs in challenging conditions.
- Played a crucial role in stabilizing Australia’s innings.
- Showed excellent footwork against Sri Lankan spinners.
- Maintained a strong strike rate with well-timed boundaries.
- Demonstrated patience and determination in testing conditions.
- Built crucial partnerships that laid a strong foundation for Australia’s innings.
Tactical Brilliance and Mental Strength
Khawaja’s ability to construct long innings has been a huge asset for Australia, especially in difficult conditions. Throughout his knock, he remained composed, picking gaps effectively and rotating the strike to keep the scoreboard moving. His patience was exemplary, as he waited for loose deliveries to capitalize on while defending solidly against quality bowling.
This innings also highlighted Khawaja’s ability to adapt to different phases of the game. He started cautiously, assessing the pitch conditions, before gradually accelerating his scoring rate. His calm and collected approach ensured that he was always in control, no matter how the Sri Lankan bowlers tried to challenge him.
Phenomenal 200
A Special Performance in the Subcontinent
Historically, Australian batters have found it tough to dominate in subcontinent conditions, but Khawaja’s performance proved that adaptability and technique can help overcome such challenges. His century in Galle adds to his growing reputation as a dependable batter in Tests, especially after his stellar comeback to international cricket in 2022.
Khawaja’s ability to play spin effectively was on full display, as he frequently used his feet to get to the pitch of the ball and played with soft hands to negate turn. This tactical awareness helped him neutralize Sri Lanka’s dangerous spin attack and put Australia in a commanding position.
Completing the Unfinished Task
Today, Usman Khawaja finally completed his unfinished task by scoring a double century against Sri Lanka, and that too in Sri Lanka itself. This time, he had the opportunity to bat freely since he was playing in the first innings of the match.
His double century was not just about personal achievement but also about setting a strong platform for Australia in the match. His innings ensured that the team had a big total on the board, putting pressure back on Sri Lanka.
The most beautiful moment of the day was when Usman Khawaja completed his double century and immediately bowed down in prostration (Sajdah) in gratitude—a sight that was truly heartwarming to witness.
After his phenomenal knock, cricket fans eagerly anticipate more big scores from Khawaja, especially in overseas conditions. His consistency and hunger for runs make him a vital part of Australia’s batting lineup in upcoming Test series.
What’s Next for Khawaja?
Khawaja has been one of Australia’s most reliable performers in recent years, especially in the longest format of the game. With his ability to adapt to different playing conditions and his solid technique against both pace and spin, he remains a crucial player in Australia’s Test setup. His performance in Sri Lanka will boost his confidence as he looks forward to more challenges in international cricket.
A Lesson for All of Us
Friends, Usman Khawaja’s story teaches us an important lesson: Often, we feel deeply upset when we lose something, but we do not realize that God has written something even better for us—we just need to wait for the right time to receive it.
This moment serves as a reminder that setbacks are often temporary, and perseverance leads to greater rewards. Khawaja’s journey from disappointment to ultimate triumph is an inspiration not just for cricketers but for everyone striving to achieve their dreams.
Usman Khawaja’s 200 not out against Sri Lanka was not just a personal milestone but also a demonstration of his class, patience, and determination. It was truly an innings to cherish in the annals of Australian cricket history.