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Veteran opener Usman Khawaja has put retirement speculations to rest, reaffirming his commitment to Australia’s Test side ahead of their two-match series against the West Indies.
The 38-year-old, who is set to return to the top of the order, believes he still has plenty to contribute, not just with the bat but also as a mentor to 19-year-old Sam Konstas, who is expected to partner him at the top following David Warner’s retirement.
“I understand I’m 38 years old, people will always look for an excuse,” Khawaja said while addressing the media in Barbados.
“But I still have a role to play, opening the batting, providing a solid start, and setting up a platform for Australia.”
Khawaja, who formed a successful partnership with Warner across 41 innings, is now eyeing a similar bond with Konstas.
“With young Sammy [Sam Konstas] coming in, it’s an added role for me, helping him through his journey and passing on knowledge,” he said.
“I won’t be around forever, so it’s important to build some stability at the top and guide him while I can. He’s still very young, and it’s exciting to see what he can do.”
Despite whispers about a dip in form, particularly against seam bowling, Khawaja stood firm, defending his technique and contribution.
Notably, since January 2024, Usman Khawaja averages 25.29 against pace, slightly below the global average of 27.84 for openers.
“I don’t understand how people say I struggle against seam if I’ve scored so many runs in Shield cricket and been Australia’s top scorer in the WTC,” he said.
“As an opener, you face the new ball every time; that’s just the nature of the job. I wish I could face more spin.”
While there’s growing chatter that the Sydney Test at the end of this year’s home Ashes series might be his farewell, Khawaja isn’t in a hurry to draw the curtain on his career.
“I’m not someone saying I want to play another 10 years, it’s about what’s best for the team,” he said.
“I could have stopped two years ago, but I knew I was still contributing. When that changes, everyone will know.”
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