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Usman Khawaja breaks down after final Test at SCG, expresses gratitude to parents

Akshita Patel

Usman Khawaja's farewell speech [Source: @ICC/X.com]Usman Khawaja's farewell speech [Source: @ICC/X.com]

Usman Khawaja’s long and proud Test career came to an emotional end at the Sydney Cricket Ground as Australia sealed a 4-1 Ashes series win over England. The 39-year-old walked out to bat for the final time in his career to a guard of honour from England’s players.

Khawaja walked out with Australia needing 68 runs to win on day 5 of the final Test. The crowd rose to its feet as he entered the field, with hundreds of fans recording the moment on their phones. 

Steve Smith gave him a reassuring pat on the back while England players applauded.

Usman Khawaja talks about a perfect ending

Although his last innings ended quickly on 6 off 7 balls, Usman Khawaja said the week had been overwhelming and full of emotion. He admitted it was hard to concentrate and control his feelings, knowing it was his final Test on the ground where his journey began in 2011. 

"It means a lot. The only thing I wanted was a win. Grateful for the one last final win and to celebrate with my teammates. It was very tough, I was trying to act cool but the whole Test match I found it really hard to control my emotions. I found it hard to concentrate. I'm glad that we got over the line and it's something I'll cherish for the rest of my life. I can just relax now," Khawaja told Fox Sports.

There was no fairytale finish with the bat, but that did not matter to him. What mattered most was winning. He added that having his parents and family around is what makes him lucky.

"Some people have lost family, I am lucky my parents are still around. My family, my wife, my kids and another one on the way. I love the game of cricket but life outside cricket has been more important.

Usman Khawaja expresses gratitude and faith

After his dismissal, Usman Khawaja walked off to a standing ovation. He removed his helmet, blew kisses to the crowd and knelt down to pray on the SCG turf, facing Mecca. 

“I think a lot of times in life, we worry about what we want. We always want more. It’s all about what else can we have, what else we want. My whole week has all been about just being grateful. Whether I get two ducks or two hundreds, just be grateful for what you’ve been given."

Khawaja said cricket has given him everything, but life beyond the game is now his priority.

"Coming back here and obviously just prostrating here and just the hallowed turf at the SCG towards Mecca, it was a one final thank you from me for everything I’ve been given. 88 Test matches, got to score so many runs, been around the world. Just thank you for everything, and I wanted to end on that note."

Khawaja’s journey from Islamabad to the Baggy Green

Usman Khawaja has a story of grit and pride. Born in Islamabad, he moved to Australia as a child and worked his way through the system to become the country’s first Pakistan-born and first Muslim Test cricketer.

At a certain point in his career, he was the only Asian player taking part in Australian domestic cricket. Over the years, he has emerged as a role model for younger players from different backgrounds.

In a career spanning 15 years, Khawaja played 88 Tests, scored 6,229 runs and hit 16 centuries. He was named ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year in 2023 and remained a key part of Australia’s batting line-up even in the final years of his career.