January 16, 2025: Australian opener Usman Khawaja recently opened up about his retirement plans, emphasizing that he is taking things "series by series." While he still feels he is contributing well, the 38-year-old cricketer is in regular discussions with the selectors and coach about his role and future within the Australian team.
Khawaja's position seems to be under scrutiny, especially after Australia's recent experiments with openers Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series. Khawaja’s performance in the BGT was less than stellar, as he scored just 184 runs in five matches, averaging only 20.44, with a single half-century to his name. Additionally, his record against Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah was poor, having scored just 33 runs in eight innings off 112 balls, while being dismissed six times.
Over the last year, Khawaja has struggled for consistency, scoring only 458 runs at an average of 25.44 in 10 Tests, with just two half-centuries. In total, Khawaja has played 78 Tests, scoring 5,635 runs at an average of 44.02, including 15 centuries and 27 fifties.
Despite his recent struggles, Khawaja remains determined to contribute to the team. He stated, "I still feel like I am contributing, we're winning games, we've been the world's number one team for about three years now." He emphasized that he is focused on one series at a time and mindful that nothing lasts forever, acknowledging that there will eventually be a time for him to step aside.
Khawaja reassured fans that he is in regular communication with coach George Bailey and the selectors, staying focused on playing for the team and performing well. He also made it clear that he will not overstay his welcome, saying, "I am here to contribute and play for the Australian cricket team and do well... I am just enjoying my cricket and playing for Australia."
While Khawaja isn't thinking about retirement right now, he remains open to the idea when the time feels right, preferring to focus on his present form and his role within the team.
