Just days ago, he was being branded a “terrorist.” Now, Usman Khawaja has decided to step away from international cricket. The Australian opener will play his final Test starting this Sunday. With tears in his eyes at his farewell, Khawaja said that despite being a dark-skinned boy from Pakistan, he wore the Baggy Green with pride. He also said he is proud of his religious identity.
Last month, a terror attack took place at Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most popular tourist spots, killing 16 people. Since then, social media users have targeted Khawaja and his two children, calling them “terrorists.” Not only after the Bondi Beach attack, but repeatedly due to his religion and Pakistani origin, Khawaja has faced hostility from sections of Australian cricket fans.
During the ongoing Ashes, he suffered an injury while playing golf, after which even former Australian cricketers questioned his commitment. Speaking about these issues at his farewell, Khawaja became emotional. Addressing the media, he said, “I am very happy with the way I was able to play for Australia. I am a proud Muslim, a dark-skinned boy from Pakistan who was told he would never play for Australia. Today, everyone can see where I have reached.”
Khawaja openly criticised Australian cricket culture, saying, “There is still a lot of racism here. I have never seen any other Australian cricketer treated like this.” After being dropped from the team in Adelaide, he made up his mind to retire, choosing to end his career by playing in his beloved Sydney.
Born in Pakistan in 1986, Khawaja moved to Australia at the age of four. He became the first Pakistan-born cricketer to represent Australia. In 84 Tests for Australia, he has scored over 6,000 runs.
