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Michael Vaughan advises Usman Khawaja to take retirement at Sydney Test

Kaushik Kashyap

Michael Vaughan on Usman Khawaja test retirement. [Source - AFP]Michael Vaughan on Usman Khawaja test retirement. [Source - AFP]

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan has suggested that Australian opener Usman Khawaja should have the freedom to decide when to retire. The final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground offers an ideal opportunity to end his Test career on his own terms.

Khawaja, 39, has struggled with injuries over recent matches, including persistent back spasms that kept him out of the Brisbane Test. He was initially overlooked for Adelaide but returned at No. 4 due to Steven Smith’s unexpected absence, and contributed with some valuable runs.

Michael Vaughan wants Usman Khawaja to decide his retirement before Sydney Test

Looking at the bigger picture, Usman Khawaja’s recent form has not been good enough. His averages of 25.93 and 36.11 over the past two years show inconsistency. In 2025, most of his 614 runs came from one big 232, hiding several low scores.

Vaughan, speaking in the Stick to Cricket podcast, emphasized the importance of allowing players to control their own endings. He believes finishing a career in a home ground in Sydney, during a high-profile Ashes Test match would be a fitting and memorable conclusion for Usman Khawaja.

“Usman has had an incredible career and not many get the chance to say goodbye on their own terms at their own venue. If he doesn’t do that, he runs the risk of his career ending not on his own terms. I can’t think of a better way to say goodbye than at his home ground in an Ashes series,” Vaughan said.

The decision ultimately rests on Khawaja’s desire to continue and his fitness. Like many current Aussie players whose form has declined, he has struggled with runs in recent times. Yet a farewell in Sydney would honor his long, distinguished career, offering closure for both him and the fans.

Australian coach Andrew McDonald also confirmed there have been no discussions about Khawaja retiring after the fourth Test, leaving the choice entirely with the batter. Speculation continues, but the spotlight will be on him as the Australian team will train for the final Test on Thursday.

With the final Ashes Test approaching, focus turns to Khawaja. Sydney shapes as a fitting stage for the left-hander to bid goodbye to Test cricket, the city where he grew up and made his Test debut 15 years ago against the same opponent. It would celebrate his long service while leaving lasting memories as the first Muslim cricketer to represent Australia.