Australia vs South Africa 3rd Test: 5 talking points

#2 Khawaja comes of age

Usman Khawaja was always touted as a Test cricketer in the making. A sensational season last year saw him in the Test team and he continued his fine form for Australia in the baggy green. However, like his mates, he suffered a slump in form in Lanka but the selectors were quick to axe him, a move he lashed out at.

Once he got an opportunity again in the series against the Proteas, he made it count. Good starts right through the series lead to one gigantic knock here at Adelaide. His 145 in the first innings paved the way for a huge lead in the first innings and eventually a face-saving win for the Aussies.

While he was forced to open in the first innings in unforeseen circumstances, Khawaja showed the grit expected from an opener as he negotiated a tricky period to ensure his team's dominance.