Sydney, 2 January 2026:
Usman Khawaja’s Test career will be remembered not just for its longevity, but for its remarkable second act.
After debuting in 2011, Khawaja endured years of inconsistency, selection setbacks and questions about his suitability in overseas conditions. But his recall in 2021 marked a turning point that transformed him into one of Australia’s most reliable Test batters.
Khawaja retires having played 87 Tests across a span of 14 years, scoring 6,206 runs at an average of 43.39. Sixteen of those innings reached three figures, including multiple defining performances in Asia.
His last Test century came in January 2025 against Sri Lanka in Galle, where he scored 232 — the highest score of his career and one of the finest innings by an Australian opener in subcontinental conditions.
Khawaja was particularly effective away from home, becoming one of Australia’s most prolific run-scorers in Asia, where he consistently countered spin with patience and precision.
“I’ve enjoyed the second half of my career far more than the first,” Khawaja said. “I was more mature, more comfortable with who I was.”
Across his career, Khawaja also took 68 catches and became a cornerstone of Australia’s batting order during a period of transition following the retirements of several modern greats.
