Usman Khawaja Bids Farewell to International Cricket
Usman Khawaja Announces Retirement
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended his congratulations to Usman Khawaja, the veteran opener, following the announcement of his retirement from international cricket. This decision comes just before the fifth and final Ashes Test against England, which commenced at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday. The 39-year-old left-handed batsman revealed that this Sydney Test would mark his last appearance for Australia on the international stage, sharing his news with the media at the venue.
Khawaja's international career concludes after he has played 87 Test matches, amassing a total of 6,206 runs at an impressive average of 43.39. His remarkable record features 16 centuries and 28 half-centuries across 157 innings.
PM Albanese Praises Khawaja's Legacy
In response to Khawaja's retirement announcement, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took to the social media platform X to commend the cricketer's contributions to Australian cricket and his influence beyond the sport. He expressed gratitude, stating, "Thank you, Usman, for everything you've done for Australia on the field and for the impact you've had off the field. You should take pride in your achievements, your legacy, and the example you have set for future generations."
Fifth Ashes Test: England Make Steady Start
In the meantime, the fifth Test between Australia and England at the Sydney Cricket Ground showcased competitive cricket during the opening session on Day 1. After winning the toss, England opted to bat first on a pitch that provided assistance to fast bowlers. By Lunch on Day 1, England had reached 114/3 in 24 overs, bolstered by a solid 57-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Joe Root and Harry Brook. Brook remained unbeaten on 23 off 31 balls, including two boundaries, while Root was not out on 31 off 37 balls, hitting four fours.
Openers Zak Crawley (16 off 29 balls, with three fours) and Ben Duckett (27 off 24 balls, with five boundaries) formed a 35-run partnership for the first wicket. Jacob Bethell was dismissed after scoring 10 runs off 23 deliveries, which included two fours, before Root and Brook stabilized the innings, helping the visitors surpass the 100-run mark in the first session.
For Australia, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Michael Neser each claimed one wicket in the first session, maintaining a balanced contest on the opening day of the final Test.