Australian cricket stalwart Usman Khawaja has brought the curtain down on his Test career in an emotional farewell at the Sydney Cricket Ground, paying a heartfelt tribute to his wife Rachel for her unwavering support throughout his journey.
An Emotional Farewell at the SCG
The final chapter of Khawaja's Test story unfolded on Thursday afternoon, as the 39-year-old left-hander walked out to bat for one last time. While a fairytale century eluded him—he was dismissed for just six runs in the second innings—he departed a winner, with Australia sealing a five-wicket victory over England.
The SCG crowd rose as one to honour the local hero, creating a moment of pure sporting theatre. After a pat on the back from captain Steve Smith, Khawaja jogged past a "Thanks Uzzy" message painted on the outfield. In a mark of immense respect, the England team and match officials formed a guard of honour, with captain Ben Stokes shaking hands as the much-loved batsman passed through.
A Career of Resilience and Triumph
Khawaja's exit marks the end of a remarkable and often roller-coaster Test career spanning 88 matches. He finishes with 6,229 runs at an average of 43.25, placing him 14th on Australia's all-time run-scorers list. The SCG proved a fitting venue for his swansong, being the site of several career highlights and located just a stone's throw from where he grew up.
His debut came at the same ground in the 2010-11 Ashes, where he first displayed the measured technique that became his trademark. After several periods in and out of the side, a dramatic recall for the 2022 Sydney Test—due to a teammate's COVID-19 positive—sparked an incredible career renaissance. He celebrated his return with twin centuries (137 and 101 not out), cementing his place for nearly four more years. A majestic unbeaten 195 against South Africa at the SCG the following year further solidified his legacy.
A Tearful Tribute and Last Walk
After chopping on a delivery from England's Josh Tongue in his final innings, Khawaja's last walk from the Test arena was met with another standing ovation. His wife Rachel watched tearfully from the stands as her husband knelt on the sacred turf, kissed the ground, and made his final exit, waving his bat to all corners of the stadium.
In a poignant post-match interview, Khawaja expressed his immediate frustration at the dismissal but quickly shifted focus to gratitude. "I looked over and saw Rachel," he said. "My family was up there... without her I wouldn't be here right now. She's given me so much support over the years—so much mental, emotional support. She's the only one I really open up to."
Reflecting on his career as a whole, Khawaja showed profound contentment. "If you told young Uzzy you're going to have 88 Test matches, average over 40 odd and score countless 100s, he would have taken that in a heartbeat," he stated, signing off from the pinnacle of the sport with grace and perspective.
