Usman Khawaja has announced his retirement from international cricket, with the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney set to be his final appearance. The 39-year-old veteran will conclude his career at the same ground where he made his Test debut in 2011. Khawaja made the announcement at a press conference held at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday morning.
Khawaja expressed his gratitude for his journey. "God, through cricket, has given me far more than I ever imagined," he stated, acknowledging the profound impact the sport has had on his life. He retires having played 87 Tests and amassing 6,206 runs. He ranks as Australia's 15th greatest run-scorer in Test history. His career includes 16 centuries and 28 half-centuries.
Khawaja's career has been marked by significant milestones at the SCG. He scored his first Ashes century at the ground in 2018, with a score of 171 against England. In 2022, he revived his career at the SCG, scoring twin centuries against England.
Khawaja's decision comes after facing increased scrutiny this summer. He missed the first Ashes Test in Perth due to back spasms and was also absent from the Brisbane Test. He was initially left out of the Adelaide Test.
Khawaja reflected on the challenges he faced growing up, particularly as a Muslim of Pakistani descent. He hopes to have inspired those who feel different or face adversity. He emphasized his pride in his background, stating, "I'm a proud Muslim, coloured boy from Pakistan who was told that he would never play for the Australian cricket team. Look at me now. And you can do the same".
Khawaja is only the second player in the last decade, after David Warner, to retire while still actively playing in the Australian Test team.
Tributes were paid to his family. Khawaja acknowledged the sacrifices made by his parents and thanked his wife, Rachel, for her support. "This journey has asked more of you than it's ever asked of me, particularly since you read everything that goes on in the press," he said of Rachel.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan had suggested that Khawaja should retire in Sydney. Vaughan noted that retiring at his home ground during an Ashes series would be a fitting end to his career.
Khawaja's career is defined by longevity and statistical achievements, having amassed over 6,206 runs at an average of 43.39. His highest score of 232 against Sri Lanka remains a testament to his technical skills. His comeback during the 2022 Ashes series, where he scored twin centuries, was a pivotal moment in his career.
