The veteran Usman Khawaja walked out at his home ground, the Sydney Cricket Ground, in his final international appearance, drawing warm applause and a standing ovation from the crowd, as Australia’s long-serving opener began his farewell match in Ashes whites. The 39-year-old announced his retirement at the press conference ahead of the Sydney Test, drawing his curtain on his 15-year international career.
Khawaja began his international career at his home ground in 2011 and has been a pillar of Australia’s batting line-up, especially in Test cricket, known for his patient technique, resilience against the new ball, and ability to play long, match-defining innings in challenging conditions.