First came a beautiful ton and a classy half-century has followed.
Usman Khawaja has continued to shine on his Test recall at the SCG, reaching a half-century from 86 balls.
The elegant left-hander brought up his 50 with a flourising cover drive off the bowling of champion quick Stuart Broad shortly after tea.
Remarkably, Khawaja now has more runs in the series than embattled Australia opener Marcus Harris.
It prompts the question: should Khawaja open with David Warner when Travis Head returns for the Hobart Test?
“I think he’s got to stay in the team,” said legendary wicketkeeper-batter Adam Gilchrist on Fox Cricket.
“I love a sense of loyalty … The selectors, and particularly Justin Langer, have tried to commit Marcus Harris. They’ve stayed with him and were somewhat repaid at the MCG, but Harris would be kicking himself that he’s wasted two opportunities to convert.
“I think Usman Khawaja has shown here that he’s clearly in the top-six best batters in Australia.”
