Usman Khawaja to Retire After Fifth Ashes Test at Sydney

Sydney, Australia – January 2, 2026 World Report Press

Australian opener Usman Khawaja has announced his retirement from international cricket, confirming that the upcoming fifth Ashes Test against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), starting January 4, 2026, will be his final appearance in the Baggy Green.

The 39-year-old Pakistan-born left-hander, who became the first Muslim player to represent Australia, made the announcement in an emotional press conference at the SCG—the same venue where he debuted in Test cricket 15 years earlier against England in 2011.

Fighting back tears and surrounded by his family, Khawaja reflected on his journey: “I’m a proud Muslim, coloured boy from Pakistan who was told he would never play for the Australian cricket team. Look at me now—and you can do the same.”

Khawaja finishes a distinguished career with 87 Test matches (soon to be 88), accumulating over 6,206 runs at an average of 43.39, including 16 centuries and 27 half-centuries. He played a pivotal role in Australia’s 2023 ICC World Test Championship victory and was named ICC Test Cricketer of the Year in 2023. His elegant strokeplay and resilience were highlighted during his remarkable 2021-22 Ashes comeback, where he scored twin centuries at the SCG.

Beyond statistics, Khawaja’s legacy lies in breaking barriers. As Australia’s first Muslim cricketer and an immigrant success story, he has been a prominent voice for diversity, inclusion, and cultural representation in the sport. He has openly addressed issues of race, faith, and belonging, while advocating for humanitarian causes.

In his retirement statement, he expressed hope for future generations: “I just want the journey for the next Usman Khawaja to be different… where that Usman Khawaja is treated the same as John Smith.”

Khawaja plans to continue playing domestic and franchise cricket, with a focus on family and his charitable foundation supporting underrepresented communities.

The SCG farewell is expected to be an emotional occasion, marking the end of an era for one of Australia’s most respected and trailblazing cricketers.