Australian cricket great Michael Clarke has publicly advised his former teammate, Usman Khawaja, to bring his distinguished Test career to a close following the upcoming Ashes Test in Sydney.
Pressure Mounts on Veteran Batter
The 39-year-old Khawaja, who made his debut back in January 2011, has represented Australia in 87 Test matches. While he enjoyed prolific form in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, averaging over 50, his output has declined noticeably in the last two calendar years. His average has dipped below 40 and then 30 respectively, leading to increased scrutiny.
This drop in performance has prompted Clarke and fellow cricket icon Mark Waugh to suggest the left-hander should consider retirement. "I think this will be Usman's farewell Test match," Clarke stated in an interview with Code Sports. "Hopefully, he goes out with a big score. I'd love to see Uz make a hundred at the SCG and walk away on a high because not many people get that opportunity."
A Career at a Crossroads
Khawaja has yet to confirm his plans publicly, and it is understood he has given no formal indication to coaching staff about stepping down. However, speculation is rife within the cricketing community that the Sydney Test could mark the end of his long international journey.
Mark Waugh echoed Clarke's sentiments, pointing to Khawaja's age and current batting position. "He's 39. He's batting in the middle order at the moment. I don't really see a future there in the middle order," Waugh said.
The calls for his retirement grew louder after a controversial start to the current Ashes series. Khawaja was unable to open the batting in the first Test in Perth due to back spasms, an injury later linked to him playing 18 holes of golf on each of the three days leading up to the match. The issue also ruled him out of the second Test in Brisbane.
Legacy of a Popular Figure
Despite the recent debates, Khawaja's career has been one of significant achievement. Across his 87 Tests, he has scored 16 centuries and 28 half-centuries. He made his debut 15 years ago in the corresponding Sydney Test, a match which saw England win the Ashes on Australian soil.
If this is the end, the popular batter may soon join his former opening partner, David Warner, in the commentary box, closing one chapter of Australian cricket as a new one begins.
