Usman Khawaja Hits Century in Sheffield Shield as Teammate’s Strong Form Persists

Usman Khawaja marked his return to the Sheffield Shield with a stylish century, whilst a promising young teammate continued his impressive form against Tasmania.

The 38-year-old achieved his hundred on the opening day of Queensland’s match against the Tigers, reaching the milestone in just 174 deliveries.

Eventually dismissed for 127, Khawaja’s innings included 12 boundaries and one six, making it the 43rd first-class century of his illustrious career.

The last time Khawaja was on the field was during Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka, where he stunned the opposition with a career-best 232 in Galle during the first Test.

His performance provided a solid foundation for the Bulls at Bellerive Oval, despite a few in the top order, including Matt Renshaw, failing to capitalise on their starts.

Fortunately, the veteran found valuable support from the in-form Lachlan Hearne, who has begun to make a name for himself this summer with impressive performances in both first-class and List A cricket, including a breakout century.

The 24-year-old accomplished his fifty in the afternoon session against Tasmania and remains not out alongside Khawaja as play drew to a close on Thursday.

Together, Hearne and Khawaja forged a remarkable 164-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

In other Shield matches, Victoria was bowled out for 285 against South Australia, where seamers Jordan Buckingham (4-70) and Henry Thornton (4-42) inflicted most of the damage with the ball.