Veteran Australian opener Usman Khawaja has announced his retirement from international cricket, using his farewell press conference to deliver a powerful and stinging rebuke of his critics. Khawaja claimed the intense scrutiny he faced over a back injury sustained before the first Ashes Test was racially motivated.
A Retirement Overshadowed by Controversy
Khawaja confirmed on Friday morning that the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground would be his last match for Australia. His career, which began at the same venue in 2011, will conclude after 88 Test matches. However, the emotional occasion was dominated by his response to the fallout from a back injury he suffered in Perth.
The left-hander was unable to bat in either innings of the first Test after experiencing back spasms. The injury emerged following several rounds of golf in the lead-up to the match, a fact that drew fierce criticism from sections of the media and former players.
'Racial Stereotypes' and a Defence of His Actions
In a pointed address, Khawaja stated he had no issue with criticism of his on-field performances but argued the sustained personal attacks over his injury were unacceptable. He framed the reaction as part of a pattern of differential treatment he has experienced throughout his career.
"The way the media and the past players came out and attacked me — I could’ve copped it for two days, but I copped it for about five days straight," Khawaja said. "It was quite personal... 'he’s not committed, he’s selfish, he’s lazy'. These are the same racial stereotypes I’ve grown up with my whole life."
He drew a direct comparison with how other players' pre-match activities were perceived. "I can give you countless numbers of guys who’ve played golf the day before and been injured, you guys haven’t said a thing," he claimed. "I can give you even more guys who’ve had 15 schooners the night before and gotten injured, no one’s said a word — 'it’s alright, they’re just being Aussie larrakins'."
Outspoken Advocacy and Its Personal Cost
Khawaja, a proud Muslim who has become increasingly vocal on social and political issues, suggested his public stances had made him a target. He referenced his support for Palestinian rights, which saw him barred by the ICC from wearing shoes bearing the messages 'freedom is a human right' and 'all lives are equal'.
"I understand that I’ve talked about certain issues outside of cricket, which leaves me exposed," he acknowledged. "I still find it hard when I say everyone deserves freedom... why that is such a big issue." He also cited his criticism of right-wing, anti-immigration politicians in Australia, stating, "These guys are trying to divide... I’m trying to bring everyone together."
His final hope was for a more equitable path for future players. "I just want the journey for the next Usman Khawaja to be different. I want you to treat him or her all the same, not have racial stereotypes around who they might be."
A Grateful Farewell to Family and Fans
Amid the controversy, Khawaja took time to reflect on his journey, recalling a childhood memory of seeing Michael Slater leave the SCG in a red Ferrari. He expressed profound gratitude to his parents for their sacrifices in moving from Pakistan to Australia, and to his wife, Rachel, for her unwavering support.
"Rachy, this journey has asked more of you than it’s ever asked of me," he said emotionally. "You’ve carried our family so I can chase my dream." He also addressed his daughters, Aisha and Ayla, hoping they would one day be proud of both his achievements and his character.
Usman Khawaja's retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in Australian cricket, but his forceful comments ensure the conversation about race, representation, and fairness in sport will continue long after his final innings at the SCG.
