Will Khawaja End His Career with a Century?
Synopsis
As Usman Khawaja prepares for his final international match, fellow cricketers Pat Cummins and Shikhar Dhawan reflect on his remarkable journey. With significant milestones ahead, can Khawaja secure a century in his farewell Test? Join us as we celebrate his illustrious career and the impact he had on Australian cricket.
Key Takeaways
Usman Khawaja announces retirement from international cricket.
Khawaja aims for a century in his farewell Test.
Cummins and Dhawan tribute Khawaja's career.
Khawaja has over 8,000 runs in international cricket.
He was recognized as ICC Test Cricketer of the Year in 2023.
Sydney, Jan 2 (NationPress) Australia’s captain Pat Cummins and former Indian batsman Shikhar Dhawan extended their congratulations to Usman Khawaja following the announcement of his retirement from international cricket after the fifth and final Ashes Test, set to take place on January 4 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
The 39-year-old opener will conclude his career as one of the most significant run-scorers in Australian history; just 30 runs in his last Test will elevate him past Michael Hussey's total of 6,235 runs, placing him 14th among Australian cricketers.
Celebrating Khawaja’s illustrious 15-year international career, Cummins shared a photo of them celebrating a wicket together. He expressed his hope that Usman would achieve a century in his final match: "Congratulations on an international career, mate. One more home century to go," he posted on X.
Dhawan also expressed his admiration for Khawaja’s journey, wishing him success in his final game. "What a journey @Uz_Khawaja. Good luck for the last Test in Sydney and everything that comes next," he shared on X.
In a press conference at the SCG, Khawaja revealed that his decision had been contemplated for some time, with discussions with his wife, Rachel, being pivotal in reaching this conclusion.
"I've been thinking about it, not entirely, but for a while. Moving into this series, I kind of had a feeling it would be my last. I talked to Rachel about it extensively, and I realized this was a significant opportunity. I didn't completely shut the door, as I knew there was a possibility I could continue playing. Even up until a few days ago, Andrew McDonald was still considering how I could travel to India," he mentioned to reporters on Friday.
Over a career lasting 15 years, Khawaja has accumulated more than 8,000 international runs across various formats, participating in 87 Tests, 40 ODIs, and 9 T20Is. In 2023, he was honored as the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year and the Shane Warne Test Cricketer of the Year, and he also played a crucial role in Australia’s victory in the World Test Championship.
Point of View
Usman Khawaja's retirement marks the end of an era. His contributions to the Australian team have been invaluable, and as he steps away from the international scene, we reflect on a career filled with achievements and challenges. This transition not only highlights Khawaja’s personal journey but also the evolution of Australian cricket as it prepares for new talents.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Usman Khawaja's retirement?
Usman Khawaja indicated that the decision to retire had been on his mind for some time, influenced by discussions with his wife and his feelings heading into the current series.
How many runs has Khawaja scored in his career?
In his 15-year international career, Usman Khawaja has scored over 8,000 runs across formats.
What accolades has Khawaja received in 2023?
In 2023, Khawaja was named ICC Test Cricketer of the Year and Shane Warne Test Cricketer of the Year.
When is Khawaja's last match scheduled?
Usman Khawaja's final international match is scheduled for January 4 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
What is Khawaja's standing among Australian run-scorers?
Khawaja is on the verge of surpassing Michael Hussey's tally of 6,235 runs, aiming to secure the 14th position among Australian men.
