The ICC World Test Championship final is scheduled to commence on June 11, featuring a showdown between Australia and South Africa. As this crucial match approaches, veteran Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja is under scrutiny, not only for his on-field performance but also due to ongoing discussions regarding his potential retirement.
At 38 years old, Khawaja is currently focused solely on Test cricket for Australia and has been a pivotal player for the team over the years. Recent struggles in form had sparked conversations about his retirement, but the left-handed batsman has now clarified his intentions regarding the future.
In an interview with the ICC, Khawaja remarked, "For me, age is merely a number. I continue to enjoy playing, am scoring runs, contributing to the team, and I still possess the desire for more success."
Despite a quiet performance during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India, Khawaja silenced his critics with a remarkable double century during the subsequent tour of Sri Lanka, demonstrating that he still has much to offer.
Khawaja made his Test debut for Australia in 2011 against England. Over his career, he has participated in 80 Test matches, batting in 144 innings and accumulating 5,930 runs at an impressive average of 45.61. His Test career features 16 centuries and 27 half-centuries, establishing him as one of Australia's most dependable players in the longer format.
In addition to his Test achievements, Khawaja has also played in white-ball formats, featuring in 40 One Day Internationals (ODIs) where he scored 1,554 runs at an average of 42, including two centuries. He has also appeared in 9 T20 Internationals.
As the World Test Championship Final approaches, Khawaja's experience and current form could be crucial for Australia's success. He has made it clear that he is far from finished.