Usman Khawaja Reflects on Career and Criticism Ahead of Retirement

Khawaja Announces Retirement After Ashes Series

Usman Khawaja has confirmed his retirement from international cricket following the fifth Ashes Test against England in Sydney. The seasoned cricketer discussed the backlash he faced after sustaining a back injury at the beginning of the Ashes series, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. He criticized the 'racial stereotypes' that have influenced how he has been perceived throughout his career.

Career Highlights

At 39 years old, Khawaja will conclude his Test career with impressive statistics: 87 matches played, 6206 runs scored, 16 centuries, and 28 half-centuries, boasting an average of 43.39 over 157 innings. He made the announcement of his retirement during a heartfelt 50-minute press conference at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Facing Criticism

During the emotional press conference, Khawaja shared his experiences of criticism, particularly after playing golf three days before the Ashes opener in Perth, which led to back spasms that prevented him from batting in the second innings. As the first Muslim cricketer to represent Australia in Test matches, he expressed feeling different throughout his career. "I've always felt a little bit different, even to now. I'm a coloured cricketer. The Australian cricket team is, in my opinion ... that's our best team. It's our pride and joy. But I've also felt very different in a lot of respects, different by the way I've been treated, different for how things have happened," he stated.

Media Scrutiny and Double Standards

Khawaja expressed frustration over the intense scrutiny he faced, particularly regarding his preparation. He noted that while he received harsh criticism for his golf outing, other players who engaged in similar activities did not face the same backlash. "I can give you countless number of guys who play golf the day before and have been injured. You guys haven't said a thing. No one else said a thing," he remarked. He highlighted the double standards in the treatment of players, stating, "When I get injured, everyone went at my credibility and who I am as a person."