• Home
  • Who Said What
  • I Thought My Career Was Done Emotional Usman Khawaja Reflects On His Edgbaston Century

'I Thought My Career Was Done' - Emotional Usman Khawaja Reflects on His Edgbaston Century

image-lj2flbk1Usman Khawaja's magnificent ton helped the Aussies stage a resounding comeback

Australian opener Usman Khawaja has experienced an extraordinary reawakening in his cricketing career as he defied the odds to make a triumphant comeback to the Test side during the fiercely contested Ashes series in 2021. 

Overcoming the bitter disappointment of being excluded from the previous Ashes tour to England in 2019, Khawaja displayed resilience and determination as he forged his path to redemption.


Usman Khawaja's journey to redemption

On Day 2 of the ongoing Ashes 2023 opener, the dynamic batter left a lasting impression on the Edgbaston Test where he unleashed a mesmerizing display of skill and finesse and enthralled the spectators with a magnificent century.

As the Australian innings unfolded on Sunday, their total reached an impressive 386, a mere seven short of 393 posted by their English counterparts in their first innings. Khawaja's monumental contribution of 141 propelled his team towards a robust position.

The significance of this achievement was not lost on the 36-year-old, who, overcome with emotions, reflected on his vigorous journey and candidly expressed his belief that he thought his cricketing days were behind him.

Having worn the ‘Baggy Green’ in 44 Test matches, scoring eight centuries, and having been an integral part of victorious Ashes campaigns and numerous triumphs, Khawaja had found solace and contentment in his previous accomplishments. 

However, the southpaw reckoned that the opportunity to grace the cricketing arena once more was a precious gift, and every Test match now carries the weight of a cherished bonus, a realization that has brought immense joy to the seasoned opener.

"Honestly, I thought that  after 44 Test matches, my career was done. I was very content and happy. Most people don't get to play 44 Test matches. Scored 8 hundreds, been a part of Ashes-winning teams, lots of winning teams. So when I got an opportunity to play again, honestly every Test feels like a bonus. Nothing lasts forever, so I am enjoying the ride," said Khawaja as quoted by Sportskeeda.

Khawaja further revealed his perspective, emphasizing the profound impact of one's mindset. While acknowledging the occasional technical aspect, he underscored the dominance of mentality. 

"Majority of things that happen as a batter are in your head. Very few times it might be technical. For me, I was probably in the best spot ever coming into England. I know this is probably going to be my last tour.I know that I was going to enjoy this tour. For me, I know that if the team is doing well, I am enjoying my cricket, but at the same time if I am a part of that, I got to keep scoring runs too. So it all came together I guess," added the Australian batter.