Khawaja bows out as one of Australia’s most prolific and elegant left-handers. Over 87 Tests, he amassed 6,206 runs at an average of 43.39, including 16 centuries.
If he scores just 30 more runs in his SCG swansong, he will surpass Michael Hussey to become the 14th-highest run-scorer in Australian men’s Test history.
His journey was far from linear. Known as one of Australia’s most frequently dropped players, Khawaja’s career was a masterclass in perseverance.
After being sidelined in 2019, many believed his international days were over. However, his 2021 22 recall at the SCG, where he scored twin centuries, sparked a late career renaissance.
Since that comeback, he averaged over 60, proving his critics wrong and cementing his place at the top of the order.
Leadership On and Off the Field
Beyond the boundary, Khawaja’s legacy is monumental. As the first Muslim to represent Australia in Test cricket, he became a powerful voice for diversity.
“I’m a proud Muslim, coloured boy from Pakistan who was told he would never play for Australia, look at me now,” Khawaja remarked in an emotional press conference.
His impact extends to the Usman Khawaja Foundation, which supports youth from refugee, immigrant, and underprivileged backgrounds.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg lauded him not just for his “stylish and resilient” batting, but for his profound off-field contributions.
The Final Walk
While head coach Andrew McDonald urged him to continue until the 2027 tour of India, Khawaja felt the timing was right.
He admitted that being left out of the Adelaide starting XI earlier this summer was the definitive sign. Though he is stepping away from the green and gold, Khawaja will continue to feature in domestic cricket, representing the Brisbane Heat in the BBL and Queensland in the Sheffield Shield.
As he prepares for his 88th and final Test, the cricket world celebrates a statesman who played the game with unmatched dignity and integrity.
