Australian opener’s unbeaten 126 ends decade-long struggle in English conditions

Usman Khawaja described his first-ever Ashes century in England as an “emotional” moment, asserting that the innings would “show everyone that the last ten years haven’t been a fluke.” The Australian opener scored an unbeaten 126 on day two of the series opener at Edgbaston, helping Australia reach 311 for five, trailing England by 82 runs.

The 36-year-old’s century marked a significant achievement in his career, especially considering his struggles in English conditions over the years. Since his first Ashes tour in 2013, Khawaja had averaged less than 18 in England. However, since his recall to the national side at the start of 2023, he has been in exceptional form, scoring seven centuries—an impressive run he has carried into this series.

Reflecting on the significance of the knock, Khawaja said, “It was the culmination of three Ashes tours in England and getting dropped in two of them. I don’t read the media, but when I’m getting sprayed by the crowd and told I can’t score runs in England, it was a bit more emotional than usual.” He continued, “It’s nice to go out and score runs for Australia and show that the last ten years hasn’t been a fluke.”

The century was celebrated with passion, as Khawaja threw his bat into the air at Edgbaston before embracing his partner Alex Carey. “I’m way more comfortable being myself now,” he said, reflecting on his maturity over the years. “When I was younger, I probably worried about how I might look, but now what you see is what you get. I’m not perfect, I make mistakes, but I’m happy to show everyone the real me.”

Khawaja’s memorable knock came as Australia began their Ashes campaign with renewed confidence, proving that his remarkable form is no accident, but the result of hard work and persistence.