Australian cricket officials have confirmed that veteran batsman Usman Khawaja will take his place in the starting lineup for the final Ashes Test in Sydney. However, questions regarding the 39-year-old’s long-term plans in the sport remain unanswered.
National team coach Andrew McDonald stated there has been no indication from Khawaja himself that the upcoming match at the Sydney Cricket Ground will be his farewell. Khawaja earned his spot for the remainder of the series with crucial performances in Adelaide, stepping in after a teammate’s withdrawal.
“His performances warrant selection, so I expect to see him out there in Sydney,” McDonald said. He acknowledged that while a player’s retirement decision is personal, the national selection panel would also have a say in the timing, especially with a significant gap before Australia’s next Test assignment.
The SCG holds special significance for Khawaja, who grew up in Sydney after moving from Pakistan and made his Test debut at the venue over a decade ago. The ground has a history of hosting emotional send-offs for Australian greats.
McDonald suggested the Sydney crowd would offer strong support regardless of any announcement, drawing a parallel to recent seasons where fans celebrated a teammate annually in case it was his final home appearance.
The confirmation of Khawaja’s place comes as the Australian team looks to rebound from a heavy defeat in Melbourne and secure a series victory. While several top-order batsmen are seeking to regain form, the team is expected to maintain continuity in its selection.
A change in the bowling attack is anticipated, with a specialist spinner likely to be recalled for the Sydney pitch, potentially replacing one of the pace bowlers used in the previous match. The team’s focus is now firmly on concluding the home summer with a strong performance.