Ashes 2023: Usman Khawaja performs so calmly and is in complete management of his sport, says Alastair Cook

By India Today Sports Desk: Former England captain Alastair Cook has heaped reward on Australia opener Usman Khawaja, saying he has full management of his sport. Khawaja scored a half-century on Day 3 as Australia look to submit a giant goal for England at Lord’s.

Ashes 2023: Full Coverage

Speaking to BBC Sport, Cook mentioned Australia should not going anyplace and have managed these robust classes properly. Australia bowled out England for 325 runs on Day 3 and have amassed a lead of over 200 runs.

“A maiden from Jimmy Anderson that saw him ask lots of questions. This Australian line-up are not going anywhere, they are resilient and are managing these tough sessions well,” mentioned Cook.

He went on to bathe reward on Khawaja, saying he’s in complete management of his sport. Khawaja scored a half-century within the second innings at Lord’s after hitting a century and a fifty within the first Ashes 2023 Test at Edgbaston.

“You are watching a guy totally in control of his game. Khawaja is getting asked so many questions and he is on it like a flash. He plays so calmly, what impresses me is how late he can play the ball,” Cook added.

The former England skipper mentioned Australia have made sluggish and regular progress on Day 3 and have fought extremely onerous. Australia have solely misplaced one wicket of their second innings as of now and have gone previous the 100-run mark.

“It’s been slow and steady progress by Australia, they have fought incredibly hard there. England have bowled beautifully but without being able to find the outside edge. Stuart Broad appeals a lot but fair play to Ben Stokes for holding his nerve,” mentioned Cook.

Australia has a 1-0 lead within the five-match Ashes 2023 collection after beating England by two wickets at Edgbaston. As for the hosts, they are going to be trying to stage proceedings at Lord’s and get again within the collection.