The much-anticipated fifth and final match of the Ashes Series 2025-26 between Australia and England kicks off on January 4 (Sunday) at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). With the Ashes already retained, the Australian team aims to conclude the series with a 4-1 score. Meanwhile, the English team is determined to end the series on a high note. Amidst this, Australian batting legend Usman Khawaja has made a significant decision just before the Sydney Test match.
At 39 years of age, Usman Khawaja has announced his retirement from international cricket. The Sydney Cricket Ground will witness his final appearance for Australia. This marks his 88th Test match. In a press conference held on Friday morning (January 2) at SCG, Khawaja declared his decision, joined by his parents, wife Rachel, and two children. He shared the news with his teammates just before a practice session, marking a heartfelt moment.
Usman Khawaja stated that while bidding farewell to Test cricket, he will continue to play domestic cricket and T20s. He will remain available for the Brisbane Heat (BBL) and Queensland (Sheffield Shield). Born in Islamabad, Khawaja moved to Sydney as a child, where he made his first-class debut in 2008, followed by his Test debut in 2011. Thus, his final Test at SCG becomes a poignant farewell.
Usman Khawaja Became Emotional
Usman Khawaja expressed, 'I never thought I would shed tears upon announcing my retirement, but as soon as I informed the team, tears welled up in my eyes. This journey has been immensely special for me.' Khawaja's career was not without challenges. He faced several exclusions, battled injuries, and at one point, his average fell below 25. Yet, each time, he made strong comebacks to prove his mettle.
The 141-run marathon innings against Pakistan in the Dubai Test in 2018 stands as one of the most memorable performances of his career. His remarkable comeback during the 2021-22 Ashes Series at the Sydney Cricket Ground, where he scored two centuries, reaffirmed his prowess. Over the last four years, he emerged as Australia's leading Test run-scorer.
Usman Khawaja is notably Australia's first Muslim Test cricketer. He has been a staunch advocate against racism and championed better pathways for players of South Asian descent. He reflected, 'Being a Muslim of Pakistani origin, I was told I would never play for Australia, yet I stand here today. I wish to be remembered as a humble cricketer who enjoyed the game and entertained fans.'
Over his career, Usman Khawaja amassed 6,206 runs in 87 Test matches for Australia, including 16 centuries and 28 half-centuries, maintaining an impressive average of 43.39. He also represented Australia in 40 ODIs and 9 T20 international matches. In ODIs, Khawaja scored 1,554 runs at an average of 42.00, with 2 centuries and 12 half-centuries. In T20 Internationals, he scored 241 runs with an average of 26.77, including a half-century.
