Australian cricketer Khawaja announces retirement, hopes to inspire the 'different'
<p>Australian cricket stalwart <strong>Usman Khawaja</strong> has officially announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing down the curtain on a remarkable 15‑year Test career that culminates with the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The 39‑year‑old left‑hander has been one of the most stylish and resilient batters of his generation, scoring over 6,200 Test runs at an average above 43, including 16 centuries. </p><p>Khawaja, who made his Test debut at the very same SCG venue in 2011, used his retirement announcement as a powerful platform to share a deeply personal message. He said he hopes his journey through the highs and lows of elite sport will <strong>inspire young people who feel “different”</strong> or marginalized to believe that they too can achieve their goals. Growing up as a Pakistan‑born Muslim in Australia, Khawaja often confronted stereotypes and barriers, yet his resilience and talent helped break new ground in Australian cricket. </p><p>At his press conference, Khawaja reflected on the challenges he faced, including losing his spot in the team at times and confronting bias rooted in outdated thinking. But rather than dwell on adversity, he emphasised that seeing someone who looked like him succeed could give others confidence that success is possible. “I hope I've inspired many children along the way, particularly those who feel that they are different, those who feel that they don’t belong,” he said. </p><p>Beyond his run‑scoring feats, Khawaja’s legacy will be remembered for his broader impact on the sport’s culture — championing diversity, inclusion, and the belief that cricket should be a game for everyone, regardless of background. As he steps away from international competition, his message resonates far beyond the boundary ropes.</p>