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Usman Khawaja completed his maiden double century in Tests, which is also the first by an Australian batter in Sri Lanka, leading the visitors to a commanding 475 for 3 at lunch on day two of the first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium.
Khawaja continued his partnership with debutant Josh Inglis, who scored a rapid 44, as they built an unbroken stand of 74 at the break on the second morning.
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Beginning the day at 330 for 2, Khawaja, who resumed at 147, and Steve Smith extended their stand to 266, leaving the Sri Lankan bowlers struggling.
Khawaja celebrated his milestone of 200 runs with a single off Prabath Jayasuriya and kneeled to kiss the ground while receiving a standing ovation from spectators and teammates.
His highest score before this was 195 not out against South Africa in 2023 at Sydney.
Khawaja demonstrated exceptional skill against spin bowling during his seven-hour stay at the wicket, executing sweeps and reverse-sweeps with remarkable precision.
His performance effectively countered those who doubted his position in the team, following a difficult period where he managed only two scores above fifty in his 16 Test innings before this match.
Smith, who reached the milestone of 10,000 Test runs with his first scoring shot on day one after Australia opted to bat, was eventually dismissed leg before wicket by Jeffrey Vandersay, a decision initially ruled not out by the on-field umpire but overturned in Sri Lanka’s favour upon review.
Smith’s innings concluded at 141.
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