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"Still Got The Hunger" Usman Khawaja Breaks Silence On Retirement Talks Ahead Of WTC Final

Sakshi Sharma

Usman Khawaja for Australia (Source:@Arnavv43,x.com)Usman Khawaja for Australia (Source:@Arnavv43,x.com)

Australian star Usman Khawaja has made it clear that retirement is not his immediate plan as he prepares to lead Australia’s batting charge in the much-anticipated ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa. The WTC final is all set to begin on Wednesday, June 11 at Lord’s Cricket Ground.

Usman Khawaja Shuts Retirement Talks

At 38, Usman Khawaja remains a crucial player in Australia’s Test lineup and, despite the age factor, insists he still has the passion, form, and fitness to contribute at the highest level. Speaking to ICC Digital, as quoted by The Times of India, Khawaja said he continues to find joy in the game and sees no reason to call it quits just yet.

"To me, age is irrelevant. If I'm still enjoying my game, still training really hard, I'm still scoring runs, still contributing to the team where I can, I've still got the hunger. I don't really think of anything as different, but I'm very open. I'm really just enjoying my cricket at the moment. Everything that has a beginning has an end.

Khawaja’s career has seen its share of highs and lows, but the left-hander has always found a way to bounce back stronger. He has made the most of every opportunity, turning heads with big performances and match-winning innings.

"I don't know when that end will be, but for me it's all about staying in the moment, enjoying it one Test match at a time, one series at a time. And when it's time to hang up the boots, I'll gracefully do that, whatever it be," Khawaja told the ICC Digital as quoted by TOI. 

Khawaja's Presence At The Top-Order

Since making a strong comeback to the Australian side in recent years, Khawaja has cemented his place at the top of the order. He has played a crucial role in Australia’s WTC campaign, scoring 1,422 runs in the current cycle (more than any other Australian batter) making him the team’s leading run-getter heading into the final.

His calm presence, technique, and experience are seen as crucial for Australia’s bid to defend their WTC crown.