Watch: Usman Khawaja scores maiden Test hundred in land of his birth

Usman Khawaja sweeps. (Credits: Twitter)

Australia's opening batter Usman Khawaja reached his 11th Test hundred on the opening day of the second Test against Pakistan at the National Stadium in Karachi. The left-hander scored a century in the land of his birth in the 64th over of the first innings by pinching a single to square leg.

Usman Khawaja punched the air in delight and leapt to celebrate one of the most memorable centuries of his career. The 35-year old missed a ton in the first innings of the first Test in Rawalpindi, falling three short of the landmark. A reverse sweep off Nauman Ali had brought about his downfall, but he suffered no such lapse in concentration in Karachi.

Beautiful scenes in Karachi as Usman Khawaja brings up that elusive century in Pakistan.

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The stylish left-hander has had a sensational few months, starting from the fourth Ashes Test. He scored a century in each innings of the Sydney Test, earning himself the 'Player of the Match' award.

As one of the best players of spin in the team, the veteran locked himself up for the Pakistan tour, replacing Marcus Harris at the top.

Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith put Australia in front

Steve Smith applauds Khawaja's milestone. (Credits: Twitter)

Khwaja, who opened the innings with Warner, has built a monumental partnership with vice-captain Steve Smith. The duo put together 150 runs before Smith (72) was dismissed on the cusp of stumps. Australia ended the first day on 251-3, with nightwatchman Nathan Lyon (0*) giving Khawaja (127*) company.

Along with Warner, the Islamabad-born player got the visitors off to a brilliant start. Warner perished for 42, while Marnus Labuschagne walked back for a duck after a direct hit from Sajid Khan. Earlier, Australia announced a change in their playing XI, debutant Mitchell Swepson replacing Josh Hazlewood.

Khawaja, Smith put Aussies in commanding position as centuries near: LIVE

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The hosts made two changes, bringing back Hasan Ali and Faheem Ashraf for Naseem Shah and Iftikhar Ahmed, respectively.

The first Test in Rawalpindi was a high-scoring affair, ending in a draw after only 14 wickets fell across five days. The tourists managed only four wickets, including none in the second innings.