New Delhi: Australian opener Usman Khawaja has decided to say goodbye to international cricket. He made this announcement in an emotional press conference on Friday, where his family members were also present. Khawaja made it clear that the fifth Ashes Test against England in Sydney will be the last international match of his career.

Australia is already ahead 3-1 in this five-Test Ashes series. Khawaja had informed the other players of the team about his retirement decision on the same day. Along with the retirement, he also discussed the issue of racial discrimination and stereotyping he faced in his career. He said that cricket has given him more than he could have imagined.

Khawaja’s statement on his personal comments

Through sports he has gained many memories, friends and important life lessons. He thanked his parents and said that their sacrifice is not mentioned, but without them this journey would not have been possible. Many comments were made about his training and his back problem during the Ashes series, which he addressed.

What allegations were made against him?

Khawaja said that allegations were also leveled against him that he was not committed to the team. He was also called lazy and selfish. He described these comments as racial stereotypes and said that this has been happening to him all his life. Khawaja said that what disappointed him the most was that he thought the game had moved beyond this thinking, but even today he has to face it every day. He made it clear that this disappointment would haunt him throughout his life.

Usman Khawaja’s debut

Usman Khawaja entered Australia’s Test cricket team in 2011. The Sydney Test against England will be his 88th Test match. He has also been a part of Australia’s 2023 World Test Championship winning team. Along with Test cricket, he has also played 49 ODI matches for Australia.

Khawaja has made a strong mark outside the field of play as well. He is the first Pakistan-born cricketer to play for Australia, and also the first Muslim cricketer from the country. His contribution will be remembered for a long time in the cricket world.