Usman Khawaja's Test Career at a Crossroads Ahead of Final Ashes Match

As Usman Khawaja prepares for the final Test of the Ashes 2025 series at the SCG, uncertainty surrounds his future in Test cricket. At 39, Khawaja faces the physical demands of the game while grappling with declining form. With significant statistics at his home ground and emerging competition from teammates, this match could serve as a fitting farewell. Explore the reasons why Khawaja might consider retiring after this pivotal match, including his past experiences and the long gap before Australia's next Test assignment.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 1, 2026, 08:52 IST

Khawaja's Uncertain Future in Test Cricket

As the final match of the Ashes 2025 series approaches at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), uncertainty surrounds Usman Khawaja's future in Test cricket. This match could be pivotal for the veteran batter, who is contemplating his next steps in the longest format of the game.

Confirmation of Khawaja's Participation

Australia's head coach, Andrew McDonald, has confirmed that Khawaja will be part of the playing XI for the SCG Test. However, the seasoned batter has not provided any indications regarding a potential retirement, leaving fans and analysts speculating about his future as he prepares for this crucial match.

Reasons for Khawaja to Consider Retirement

With Khawaja's future in international cricket still uncertain, here are six compelling reasons why he might consider retiring after the SCG Test.

A Fitting Farewell at Home Ground

The SCG has been Khawaja's home ground, where he began his domestic career with New South Wales before moving to Queensland. Playing his final Test here would allow him to bid farewell in front of his home crowd, concluding his career on a high and emotional note.

Impressive SCG Statistics

At the SCG, Khawaja has played nine Test matches, scoring 875 runs, which includes four centuries and one fifty, with an average of 50.28. Retiring at this venue would enable him to leave behind a legacy of memorable performances.

Age and Physical Demands of Test Cricket

At 39, Khawaja is the oldest player in the Australian squad for the Ashes series. Despite his dedication to training and fitness, the physical demands of Test cricket are significant, and sustaining high performance becomes increasingly challenging with age.

Declining Form as a Factor

Khawaja's form has not been consistent in 2025. After starting the year with a double century against Sri Lanka, he struggled to score a fifty until the third Test of the Ashes series. His overall performance this year has raised concerns about his consistency.

Past Experiences and Current Performance

Khawaja's past experience of being dropped from the Test side during the 2019 Ashes series serves as a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change. In the current series, he has scored 153 runs at an average of 30.06, which reflects a mixed performance.

Emerging Competition in the Team

With Travis Head's impressive performances as an opener, Khawaja may find limited opportunities to return to his preferred batting position. This situation makes the SCG Test an ideal moment for him to conclude his international career.

Future of Australian Test Cricket

The final Test of the series will conclude on January 8, with Australia's next Test match scheduled against Bangladesh in August 2026. This long gap may prompt selectors to explore younger talent, further supporting Khawaja's decision to retire after the SCG Test.