Usman Khawaja Breaks Sachin Tendulkar's Record, Becomes First Player To Achieve Huge Feat In 1st Test vs Sri Lanka

After a challenging series against India, where Usman Khawaja managed just 184 runs in 10 innings and fell, the Australian opener made an extraordinary comeback in the first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium.

The 38-year-old left-hander notched up the maiden double century of his career, smashing 232 runs and leading Australia to a commanding total of 644.

Khawaja's innings was a testament to resilience and class. He formed a massive 266-run partnership for the third wicket with stand-in captain Steve Smith, who contributed a solid 141.

Later, he teamed up with debutant Josh Inglis for a 146-run stand for the fourth wicket, with Inglis marking his Test debut with an impressive 131. The Australian batting lineup dominated the Sri Lankan bowlers, putting the visitors in complete control of the match.

Khawaja's remarkable innings saw him break a 15-year-old record held by Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar. With this knock, Khawaja became the oldest player-either from Sri Lanka or a visiting team-to score a double century on Sri Lankan soil. He achieved this historic feat after turning 38, becoming the first player to reach such a milestone after his 38th birthday.

Additionally, Khawaja became the first Australian in history to score a double century in Sri Lanka. His record-breaking innings also made him the second-oldest Australian to achieve this feat, a record that places him just behind the legendary Don Bradman, who scored two double centuries past the age of 38 during his illustrious career.

Australia declared their first innings at a mammoth 644, with contributions from Khawaja, Smith, and Inglis setting the tone. At the close of play on Day 2, Sri Lanka found themselves struggling at 44/3 in 15 overs. Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Matthew Kuhnemann each claimed a wicket, putting the hosts under immense pressure as they faced the daunting task of chasing down Australia's total. At the time of writing this article, the Lankan Lions were trailing at 136/5.