Usman Khawaja shatters Sachin Tendulkar's 15-year-old mega record with maiden Test double century
Usman Khawaja made history with a sensational double century in the first Test against Sri Lanka. His 232-run innings, along with centuries from Steve Smith and Josh Inglis, propelled the Australian team to a formidable total of 654/6 dec.
Usman Khawaja roared with the bat following a disastrous series against India, where he struggled mightily, scoring only 184 runs in 10 innings. He achieved a career milestone by scoring his first-ever double century in Test cricket during the opening match of the ongoing series between Australia and Sri Lanka.
Usman Khawaja scored a magnificent 232 runs, contributing significantly to Australia's imposing total of 654/6dec. He was well-supported by stand-in captain Steve Smith (141) and debutant Josh Inglis (131), both of whom also scored centuries. Khawaja's 266-run partnership with Smith for the third wicket was a key highlight of the innings. He also shared a substantial 146-run stand with Inglis for the fourth wicket.
Usman Khawaja's double century is a record-breaking feat, surpassing a 15-year-old mark previously held by Sachin Tendulkar. He now holds the distinction of being the oldest player, whether from Sri Lanka or a visiting team, to score a double century in Sri Lanka.
Let's have a look at the list of oldest batters to crack Test double century in Sri Lanka:
| Player | Age | Match | Score | Venue | Year |
| Usman Khawaja | 38 Years, 42 Days | Australia vs Sri Lanka | 232 | Galle | 2025 |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 37 Years, 93 Days | India vs Sri Lanka | 203 | SSC, Colombo | 2010 |
| Kumar Sangakkara | 36 Years, 283 Days | Sri Lanka vs Pakistan | 221 | Galle | 2014 |
| Aravinda de Silva | 36 Years, 377 Days | Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh | 206 | PSS, Colombo | 2002 |
| Hashan Tilakaarate | 34 Years, 138 Days | Sri Lanka vs West Indies | 204 | SSC, Colombo | 2001 |
Usman Khawaja's double century is a historic feat, making him the first Australian cricketer to reach this milestone in Sri Lanka. He also becomes the second-oldest Australian batsman to score a double ton, trailing only Don Bradman. Bradman achieved this feat twice in his career after turning 38.
As far as match is concerend, Australia batted aggressively and posted a massive total of 654 runs before declaring their innings. Sri Lanka, in response, struggled and ended Day 2 in a difficult position at 44 for 3 after 15 overs. The Australian bowlers shared the wickets, with Mitchell Starc, Matthew Kuhnemann, and Nathan Lyon each taking one.
