Usman Khawaja marked a dramatic return to the Ashes with a composed 82 on Wednesday, steadying Australia’s innings after a shaky start on the opening day of the third Test against England in Adelaide.

Drafted into the playing XI just hours before the toss on the eve of his 39th birthday, Khawaja replaced Steve Smith, who was ruled out after falling ill. Batting at an unfamiliar No. 4 position, the veteran delivered when Australia needed him most.

Khawaja survived an early scare when he was dropped on five before forging crucial partnerships, adding 61 with Marnus Labuschagne and a further 91 with Alex Carey to guide Australia to 194 for five at tea. Carey remained unbeaten on 48, with Josh Inglis on five at the interval.

England made early inroads in both sessions, striking in pairs to keep Australia under pressure. Jofra Archer led the charge, removing Jake Weatherald (18) with a sharp short ball and returning after lunch to dismiss Labuschagne (19) and Cameron Green for a duck, finishing the session with figures of 3 for 19.

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Australia’s innings had begun steadily, with Travis Head and Weatherald putting on 33 runs before Archer’s pace broke through. Brydon Carse then struck immediately, trapping Head (10) after a loose drive that was brilliantly caught by Zak Crawley at short cover.

Khawaja endured a testing spell from debutant Josh Tongue and survived another chance when Harry Brook spilled a straightforward catch at second slip in the 16th over. From there, he grew in confidence, playing with authority and control, striking 10 boundaries including a pair of exquisite cuts.

Just as a first Test century since January appeared within reach, Khawaja mistimed a slog-sweep against spinner Will Jacks, with Josh Tongue completing the catch in the deep to end a valiant innings.

Australia entered the Test leading the five-match series 2–0, having secured convincing victories in Perth and Brisbane. England need a win in Adelaide to keep their Ashes hopes alive.

(By PTI Inputs)