Top 5 Greatest Test Innings of Usman Khawaja

Australian batting star Usman Khawaja is set to retire from international cricket after the final Test of the 2025–26 Ashes series at the Sydney Cricket Ground. At 39, he will close the chapter on a Test career that lasted nearly 15 years and earned him respect around the world. When discussing the greatest test innings of usman khawaja, fans often remember his calm approach, strong defense, and ability to deliver under pressure.

Over 87 Test matches, Khawaja scored 6,206 runs and registered 16 centuries, many of them coming in difficult conditions and against top-quality bowling attacks. The greatest test innings of usman khawaja were not just about big scores, but about timing and responsibility. He often stepped up when Australia needed stability at the top of the order.

As he prepares to walk away from Test cricket, this is the perfect moment to look back at the greatest test innings of usman khawaja, performances that shaped matches and defined his legacy as one of Australia’s most reliable red-ball batters.

List of 5 Greatest Test Innings of Usman Khawaja

5. 174 vs New Zealand, Brisbane, 2015

Early in his Test career, Usman Khawaja struggled to secure a permanent place in the Australian side. In his first nine Tests, he scored only two half-centuries and faced constant pressure from selectors. That narrative changed during the 2015 home series against New Zealand.

Promoted to bat at number three, Khawaja faced a quality bowling attack led by Trent Boult and Tim Southee. He responded with confidence and patience, playing one of the greatest test innings of usman khawaja on home soil.

He scored 174 runs from 239 balls, batting for over six hours. His shot selection was disciplined, and he punished loose deliveries without taking unnecessary risks. Australia posted a huge total of 556 for 4 declared and went on to win the match comfortably.

This innings was not just his maiden Test century; it marked the beginning of Khawaja’s rise as a reliable Test batter.

Runs	Balls	Fours	Sixes	Venue	Result
174	239	16	2	Brisbane	Australia won by 208 runs

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4. 141 vs Pakistan, Dubai, 2018

The 2018 Test series in the UAE tested Australia’s batters both mentally and physically. In the first Test at Dubai, Pakistan dominated the early stages and set Australia a daunting fourth-innings target of 462 runs.

Opening the batting, Khawaja once again stood tall. After Australia lost quick wickets, he chose survival over scoring rate. His 141-run innings came from 302 balls and lasted more than eight hours, making it one of the greatest test innings of usman khawaja in subcontinental conditions.

He showed remarkable concentration against spin and pace, leaving the ball well and defending for long stretches. Thanks largely to his effort, Australia managed to save the Test match. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award.

Runs	Balls	Batting Position	Venue	Result	Award
141	302	Opener	Dubai	Draw	Player of the Match

3. 137 & 101* vs England, Sydney, 2022

After being left out of the 2019 Ashes, Khawaja made a surprise return to the Test side during the 2021–22 Ashes series. Selected for the Sydney Test after a late change, he made the opportunity count in spectacular fashion.

In the first innings, he scored a composed 137, anchoring Australia’s total with excellent control. In the second innings, under pressure after early wickets, Khawaja remained unbeaten on 101 to complete twin centuries.

These knocks were among the greatest test innings of usman khawaja, as they marked his return after a long gap and re-established him as a regular Test player. His calm presence ensured Australia avoided defeat and secured a draw.

First Innings	Second Innings	Venue	Result
137	101*	Sydney	Draw

2. 141 vs England, Edgbaston, 2023

The 2023 Ashes series in England demanded discipline from top-order batters. At Edgbaston, England posted a challenging first-innings total, and Australia needed a solid reply.

Khawaja delivered exactly that. He scored 141 runs from 321 balls, showing exceptional patience outside the off stump. His innings formed the backbone of Australia’s response and stood out as one of the greatest test innings of usman khawaja in overseas conditions.

In the second innings, he added another crucial 65 runs while chasing 281. His time at the crease allowed others to play freely, setting the stage for Australia’s narrow victory.

Innings 1 Runs	Innings 2 Runs	Total Balls Faced	Venue	Result
141	65	518	Edgbaston	Australia won by 2 wickets

1. 232 vs Sri Lanka, Galle, 2025

At the top of the list stands the finest performance of Khawaja’s Test career. His double century against Sri Lanka in Galle was the clearest example of his skill, experience, and temperament.

Batting on a turning pitch, Khawaja scored 232 runs from 352 balls, mixing solid defense with controlled attacking shots. He handled spin with ease and batted for long sessions, helping Australia post a massive 654 for 6 declared.

Sri Lanka were completely outplayed, and Australia won the match by an innings and 242 runs. This knock is widely regarded as the greatest test innings of usman khawaja, combining technique, patience, and leadership at the highest level.

Runs	Balls	Venue	Australia Total	Result	Award
232	352	Galle	654/6	Won by innings & 242 runs	Man of the Match

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