Australian cricket legend Usman Khawaja has announced his retirement from international cricket ahead of the fifth Ashes Test against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The 39-year-old left-handed opener confirmed that this Sydney Test will mark the end of his illustrious career, bringing down the curtain on 87 Test matches for Australia. Born in Islamabad, Khawaja moved to Australia at a young age and went on to become one of the most reliable batsmen in the Australian lineup.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took to social media to congratulate Khawaja, praising not only his achievements on the field but also his contributions off it. "Thank you Usman for everything you've done for Australia on the field and everything you've meant to Australians off the field. You can be proud of your record, your legacy and the example you have set for everyone who will follow in your footsteps," wrote Albanese.
Over his Test career, Khawaja amassed 6,206 runs at an average of 43.39, including 16 centuries and 28 half-centuries across 157 innings, earning him a reputation as a dependable and classy top-order batsman. His retirement marks the end of an era for Australian cricket, with fans and teammates paying tribute to his consistency, sportsmanship, and leadership.
On the first day of the final Ashes Test, England reached 114/3 at lunch, with Joe Root unbeaten on 31 and Harry Brook on 23. England’s openers, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, provided a solid start, while Jacob Bethell fell for 10. For Australia, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Michael Neser picked up early wickets, keeping the match evenly poised.
As Khawaja steps away from the international stage, his legacy as a trailblazer and role model for young cricketers will remain a lasting part of Australian cricket history. Fans and fellow players alike celebrated his contributions both on and off the field.
