Published: Jan 10, 2026, 03:34 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 10, 2026, 03:34 PM (IST)
After retirement from Test cricket following the Sydney Test, Usman Khawaja made an immediate impact in the Big Bash League (BBL) with an aggressive innings for Brisbane Heat against Sydney Thunder on Saturday.
Leading the Heat as captain, Khawaja played a match-winning knock of 78 runs off 48 balls at a strike rate of 162.50. His innings featured seven fours and three sixes and set the foundation for a comfortable victory. Khawaja was given a reprieve when he was dropped on 17, after which he paced his innings smartly and went on to complete his half-century in just 30 balls.
Khawaja shared a rapid 57-run partnership in 3.5 overs with Jack Wildermuth, who contributed 39 runs off just 15 balls. The early assault put Brisbane Heat firmly in control of the chase.
Earlier, batting first, Sydney Thunder posted 180 for six in their 20 overs. David Warner’s impressive 82 runs off 56 balls anchored the Thunder innings, while Sam Billings added 34 runs. However, Warner’s effort ultimately went in vain as Brisbane Heat chased down the target of 181 runs in just 16.2 overs.
Apart from Khawaja, Matt Renshaw also played an explosive knock, scoring 42 runs off 26 balls, including four fours and a six, to seal the victory for Brisbane Heat.
Khawaja’s latest performance further adds to his impressive Big Bash League record. He has played 71 BBL matches so far, scoring 2,210 runs, including two centuries and 13 half-centuries. At the international level, Khawaja has represented Australia in nine T20 matches, scoring 241 runs.
