Melbourne [Australia], January 16: Australian opener Usman Khawaja recently opened up about his retirement plans, stating that he is taking things “series by series” and remains focused on his current contributions to the team. He added that he maintains regular discussions with selectors and the coach regarding his role and future with the Australian setup.
With Australia experimenting with new openers like Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the 38-year-old Khawaja’s position appears to be under scrutiny, especially given his form. In five matches during the BGT, Khawaja scored 184 runs at an average of 20.44, with a best of 57. His struggles against India’s Jasprit Bumrah were particularly notable, with Khawaja scoring just 33 runs off 112 balls in eight innings, averaging only 5.50 against the pacer.
In the past 10 Tests, Khawaja has accumulated 458 runs in 20 innings at an average of 25.44, with just two half-centuries. His career statistics are still impressive, with 5,635 runs in 78 Tests at an average of 44.02, including 15 centuries and 27 fifties.
Reflecting on his approach, Khawaja stated, “I am just taking it series by series. I still feel like I am contributing. We’re winning games, and we’ve been the world’s number one team for about three years now. We have a solid team, with great bowlers, batsmen, and Alex Carey behind the stumps.”
However, Khawaja acknowledged the inevitable reality of retirement. “I am mindful that nothing lasts forever. At some stage, there will be a time to leave the game, and I respect that. There will be new players coming up, and I am very mindful of that too. But right now, I’m not thinking too far ahead.”
Khawaja made it clear that he is committed to the team and remains in constant communication with the coach and selector George Bailey. “I am here to contribute and play for Australia. Whenever that time comes for me to move on, I’ll know, but I do not feel like it’s now. Right now, I’m just enjoying my cricket and playing for Australia,” he concluded.