NEW DELHI: With the Ashes series heading towards its final chapter at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, one of the biggest talking points surrounding the fifth Test is the future of Usman Khawaja in Australian whites.
The discussion has only gathered pace in recent days, especially with reports suggesting Khawaja is expected to address the media ahead of the series decider, further fuelling retirement chatter.
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Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has now weighed in on the debate, offering a candid assessment of Khawaja’s future. Speaking to Code Sports, Clarke indicated that the Sydney Test could well be the veteran opener’s farewell outing.
“I think this will be Usman’s farewell Test match. I don’t think it’s a token selection; they picked him for Melbourne, so once you go down that path, you pick him for Sydney as well,” Clarke said.
Clarke went on to explain why the timing feels right and why he hopes Khawaja can sign off in memorable fashion if this does turn out to be the end.
“But I think he’ll retire after this Test. Australia will win the series. Hopefully, he goes out with a big score. I’d love to see Uz make a hundred at the SCG and walk away on a high, because not many people get that opportunity.”
Khawaja has been dealing with questions around form for some time now.
Across 87 Test matches for Australia, Khawaja has scored 6,206 runs at a solid average of 43.1, including 16 centuries. While those numbers may not place him among the all-time greats statistically, his impact has consistently been recognised.
