Usman Khawaja Announces Retirement from International Cricket After Ashes Test
Usman Khawaja to Retire After Fifth Ashes Test
Sydney [Australia], January 2: Usman Khawaja, the seasoned Australian opener, has officially declared that he will retire from international cricket following the fifth Ashes Test against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground, which is set to commence later this month, as reported by a leading sports news outlet.
The 39-year-old left-handed batsman will conclude his international journey after an impressive career, having played 87 Tests and amassed 6,206 runs with an average of 43.39. His Test record includes 16 centuries and 28 half-centuries over 157 innings.
During a media interaction at the SCG, Khawaja shared that this decision had been on his mind for a while, with significant discussions with his wife, Rachel, influencing his choice.
“I’ve been contemplating this for some time,” Khawaja stated. “As I approached this series, I had a feeling it might be my last.”
He also mentioned that Australian head coach Andrew McDonald had been exploring options to extend his Test career, including potential future tours.
“I discussed it with Rachel quite a bit, and I recognized this was a significant opportunity. I didn’t completely close the door on playing longer, as I knew there was a possibility,” Khawaja explained. “Even up until recently, Andrew was considering how I could participate in the 2027 tour to India.”
Khawaja expressed his contentment in retiring on his own terms, noting that the early matches of the Ashes series helped him gain clarity.
“I’m pleased to leave on my own terms, with dignity, and to retire at the SCG, a place I cherish. However, the beginning of the series was quite challenging. Not being selected for the initial game in Adelaide was a clear sign for me to move on,” he remarked.
He also revealed that he had contemplated retirement several times over the last two years and was aware of public opinions regarding his ongoing selection.
“I told him, if at any point you want me to retire, I will do so immediately. I have no problem with that. I’m not clinging on for my own sake,” Khawaja stated. “It was frustrating because I felt people were criticizing me, labeling me as selfish for continuing. But my intentions were not self-serving.”
“Andrew McDonald insisted that he wanted me to stay, emphasizing my importance for the Sri Lanka series and the World Test Championship. So, I decided to continue,” he added.
After his retirement from international cricket, Khawaja confirmed his intention to keep playing domestically. He is set to join the Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League and aims to represent Queensland in the Sheffield Shield.