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Usman Khawaja Retires on His Own Terms
Australian batting giant Usman Khawaja retires from international cricket after the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The 39-year-old concludes a remarkable 15-year career that began at the same venue he will leave from. Born in Pakistan and raised in Australia, Khawaja became the first Muslim, Pakistan-born player to wear the Baggy Green. He finished with 6,206 Test runs at an average of 43.39, including 16 centuries in 87 or 88 Tests.
Khawaja’s career had ups and downs. He was dropped at times but regained his place with key performances, including twin centuries at the SCG in 2022. He also scored a career-best 232 against Sri Lanka, showcasing his flair and resilience. Throughout his career, he was known for elegant stroke play, mental strength, and determination that inspired many young cricketers.
Decision to Retire After the Ashes
Khawaja confirmed that the 2025-26 Ashes series would mark his final campaign, departing after the fifth and final Test in Sydney. At 39, he retired from the Test team, grateful for his career opportunities and the friendships he made. The decision ends reports of speculation about his future in the Australian side.
He reflected on his journey from immigrating as a child to becoming a mainstay at the top of Australia’s batting order. Khawaja expressed contentment and pride in how his career unfolded, saying he felt blessed to represent his adopted country.
Scrutiny, Injury, and the Weight of Stereotypes
As Usman Khawaja retires, he used his final press conference not just to reflect on cricket, but also to challenge racial bias within Australian cricket, a theme he said followed him throughout his career.
Khawaja described intense public scrutiny after suffering back spasms early in the Ashes. He explained that criticism of his injury quickly turned personal, not focused on performance, but on his character and preparation. He was accused of being “not committed”, “selfish”, “lazy” and not training hard enough. For Khawaja, these weren’t just athletic criticisms, they echoed racial stereotypes he’d endured all his life.
He said he had witnessed other Australian players suffer injuries under similar circumstances, from golf outings or other activities, without facing anywhere near the same hostile reaction. He highlighted other players injuring themselves in golf or accidents without criticism, but critics targeted his dedication, not just fitness, exposing a bias-driven double standard.
Speaking Up on Race and Representation in Australian Cricket
Khawaja explicitly linked these reactions to racial stereotypes long associated with players of colour, such as assumptions about work ethic and commitment. He acknowledged that many would say he was “playing the race card,” but urged critics “don’t gaslight me”, insisting that the patterns he described were real and persistent.
He also reflected on the broader cultural context of Australian cricket, suggesting the sport “is still very white” and has not fully moved beyond outdated perceptions. Khawaja said he hoped his words would make the path easier for the next generation, that future cricketers from diverse backgrounds wouldn’t have to fight the same battles.
Beyond injuries, Khawaja faced stereotypes from his youth in Sydney to becoming Australia’s first Pakistan-born, Muslim Test cricketer. He often felt critics judged his commitment differently from his white teammates.
Khawaja said speaking on social and political issues sometimes intensified public reaction to him beyond cricket.. He acknowledged that his visibility as a Muslim, as someone who speaks up might have made him a target for critics who prefer silence from minority athletes.
Impact Beyond Runs: Legacy and Representation
Beyond statistics, Khawaja has influenced the sport’s culture in Australia. His presence helped redefine what it means to be an Australian cricketer. He consistently spoke about inclusivity and urged cricket authorities and fans to embrace true diversity.
Many praised his role in encouraging players from varied backgrounds to pursue the sport. Cricket Australia acknowledged his contributions both on the field and in community programs.
As Usman Khawaja retires, he leaves behind a legacy of runs, resilience, and a powerful call for equality, hoping future cricketers won’t face the same battles.
