Usman Khawaja has taken aim at 'racial stereotypes' that have dogged him throughout his career after announcing his retirement from Test cricket. The Australian batter pointed to criticism he faced after suffering a back spasm during the first Ashes Test as an example of what he still encounters.
In a press conference at the SCG, Khawaja confirmed next week's fifth Ashes Test would be his last in the Baggy Green. He will retire with 88 Tests to his name, having scored 6,206 runs, making him Australia's 15th greatest run-scorer.
Khawaja said the commentary around his back spasm was personal and at odds with how other injuries are treated. 'I can give you a countless number of guys who have played golf the day before a match and have been injured, but you guys haven't said a thing,' he said. 'But when I get injured, everyone went at my credibility and who I am as a person.'
The 39-year-old also linked the criticism to his outspoken views on political issues, including the plight of Palestinians. 'I understand that I've talked about certain issues outside cricket, which leaves me exposed,' he said. 'I still find it hard when I say that everyone deserves freedom and that Palestinians deserve freedom and equal rights, and why that's a big issue.'
Former Australian paceman Jason Gillespie said he felt 'a tinge of disappointment' watching Khawaja's press conference but called him a 'great role model'. Gillespie noted that criticism of Khawaja's golf prior to the Ashes opener was valid, but he did not question the racism Khawaja has faced.
