Khawaja's maiden double century puts Australia in control against Sri Lanka

Usman Khawaja struck his first Test double century to put Australia in a commanding position at 475-3 by lunch on 30 January, the second day of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.

The left-handed opener resumed on 147 overnight and reached 204 before the break, batting alongside debutant Josh Inglis, who played a brisk knock of 44. The pair had added 74 runs for the fourth wicket by the interval.

Khawaja brought up his double hundred with a single off Prabath Jayasuriya, removing his helmet and raising his bat before dropping to kiss the turf in celebration. His teammates and fans stood to applaud the milestone, which made him the first Australian to score a double century in Sri Lanka. His previous best was an unbeaten 195 against South Africa in Sydney in 2023.

Australia had started the day on 330-2, with Khawaja and Steve Smith extending their partnership to 266 before Smith was trapped lbw by Jeffrey Vandersay for 141. The decision was initially given not out but overturned on review.

Smith had already reached a personal milestone on the opening day, crossing 10,000 Test runs with his first scoring shot after Australia elected to bat first.

Khawaja's seven-hour stay at the crease was a masterclass in playing spin, with his sweep and reverse sweep proving crucial on a turning track. His innings also silenced critics who had questioned his place in the side following a lean run of form, with only two half-centuries in his last 16 innings before this Test.