In a poignant farewell to his Test career, Usman Khawaja expressed deep gratitude after his final match, despite it not ending in the fairy-tale fashion he had imagined. The 88th and final Test of Khawaja’s illustrious career saw him dismissed for just six runs in Australia’s chase, but the team ultimately secured a 4-1 Ashes series triumph.
Ahead of his last Test, Khawaja reflected on what a fairytale finish might look like. “I think the fairytale’s already done,” he said. “I don’t think it matters how many runs I score.” His words turned prophetic as he faced Josh Tongue, only to be dismissed early, but the Aussie team held their nerve, completing the win.
Even in the emotional moment of his dismissal, Khawaja received a guard of honour from the English team, a fitting tribute to his 88 Tests for Australia. As he walked off the field, he raised his bat to the standing ovation of the 25,847 strong SCG crowd, before performing a Sajdah, a Muslim prayer ritual, in gratitude. The message “Thanks Uzzy #419” was displayed on the field as a sign of respect.
🗣 Usman Khawaja Reflects on His Career:
— CricNetworks (@cricnetworks) January 8, 2026
"I’m incredibly thankful for everything I’ve been given. I’m so grateful for the career I’ve had.
If you’d told young Uzzy he’d play 88 Test matches and average over 40, he would have taken it without hesitation.
It’s something I’ll… pic.twitter.com/8wEHw4OVfr
Khawaja shared his emotions with Fox Cricket after the match, admitting the weight of the week had impacted his performance. “It was very tough,” he said. “I was trying to act cool, but the whole Test match, I found it really hard to control my emotions.”
Despite the challenges, Khawaja remained thankful for the victory and the opportunity to finish his career on a high at the SCG. “I’m just grateful for one last final win and to celebrate with my teammates,” he said.
Finishing his career as one of only 16 Australians to score over 6000 Test runs and 16 centuries, Khawaja’s contributions will be appreciated even more in retirement. He also boasts an impressive average of 48.05, ranking among the top openers in Australian history.
Long-time teammate and stand-in captain Steven Smith paid tribute to Khawaja’s career: “He’s had a wonderful career. It’s been great to be alongside him for all of it. He’s just grown as a human and as a player. He’ll certainly be missed in that dressing room.”
As Usman Khawaja steps away from Test cricket, he leaves behind a legacy that will endure for generations.
𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞 📷
— CricNetworks (@cricnetworks) January 8, 2026
A memorable series ends as Australia lift the Ashes trophy 📷#WTC27 | #AUSvENG pic.twitter.com/qLuNW8E4RL
