‘I am living the Australian dream’ - Usman Khawaja after century in fourth Ashes Test

It was indeed a memorable comeback from Usman Khawaja as the southpaw slammed a magnificent ton on his Test return. Facing the likes of James Anderson and Stuart Broad in the fourth Ashes Test, the 35-year-old paced his innings to perfection and slammed 137 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Khawaja was ecstatic after reaching the three-figure mark and the same was evident in his celebrations.

For the unversed, Khawaja’s last Test outing was recorded way back in Ashes 2019. He even warmed the benches in the first three Tests of the ongoing Ashes 2021-22. The veteran eventually got a chance in Sydney as Travis Head tested positive for COVID-19. With Head being the batter in form, Khawaja had to make full use of this opportunity and he didn’t miss out on making a mark.

It was probably the most touching, humbling and amazing feeling: Usman Khawaja

His remarkable ton helped Australia declared at 416/8 in the first innings. Speaking of his stunning knock, Khawaja said he was overwhelmed by the response of the spectators. “It was probably the most touching, humbling and amazing feeling after getting that hundred. Everyone (in the crowd) went up and there were chants of Uzi as I was coming off the field. I never expected it to happen,” Khawaja said the press conference.

“It usually happens to the bowlers, batters don’t usually get that kind of treatment. So, to have that was unbelievable,” he added. The veteran batter also recalled his past and said he’s living the ‘Australian dream.’

“I joke around the boys about my past and where I have come from. We talk about the American dream. I call this as the Australian team. I joke about it but I am very serious. I am living the Australian dream. My parents came here from Pakistan to give me a better life. Now, I am representing Australia in our national sport, something which I have loved doing,” said Khawaja.

“I have gone a lot of through hard times, broke down many barriers to get to where I am right now. I think, at some level, people can relate to that. The love which I have got here today is something special, something I will never forget,” he further added.