Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has sent a special message to cricketer Usman Khawaja, praising his remarkable career and significant "off the field" contributions following his international retirement. Khawaja, a veteran opener, announced his decision to step away from international cricket ahead of the fifth and final Ashes Test against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The Prime Minister's tribute highlighted Khawaja's legacy as a role model and his impact on Australian society beyond the cricket pitch.^[1][2][3][4] ### A Legacy Beyond the Pitch Prime Minister Albanese publicly acknowledged Khawaja's long and distinguished service to Australian cricket. He specifically praised Khawaja for his influence off the field, calling his contributions a source of national pride. Albanese emphasized Khawaja's role in setting an example for the wider Australian community.^[2][4] "Usman, we thank you for your services to Australia on the field and your importance to the Australian people off the field," Prime Minister Albanese wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "You can be proud of your record, your legacy and the example you have set for all those who will follow in your footsteps."^{[1][2][5][3][4]} The Prime Minister lauded Khawaja for his courage as the first Muslim to represent Australia in Test cricket. He noted that Khawaja paved the way for a more inclusive and representative national team. Albanese also remarked that Khawaja's journey, from a young immigrant to a premier opening batter, inspired millions.^[6] Khawaja earned respect for his dignified stance on social issues, consistently promoting social harmony, diversity, and mutual respect.^[2] ### Khawaja's Candid Farewell Usman Khawaja, 39, confirmed his international retirement during a press conference at the SCG. He stated that the Sydney Test would be his final appearance for Australia. Khawaja's decision brings an end to a career spanning over a decade at the highest level.^{[7][5][3][4][8]} During his announcement, Khawaja spoke candidly about the "racial stereotypes" and criticism he faced throughout his career. He reflected on his journey as a proud Muslim boy from Pakistan who was once told he would never play for the Australian cricket team. Khawaja expressed hope that he had inspired many children, especially those who feel different or are told they do not belong.^[9][10][11] Khawaja's international career included 87 Test matches, where he scored 6,206 runs at an average of 43.39. His impressive record features 16 centuries and 28 half-centuries. He also played 40 One Day Internationals, scoring 1,554 runs, and nine T20 Internationals, adding 241 runs.^[1][5][3] ### End of an Era at the SCG Khawaja's retirement at the SCG is a fitting end to his career. He made his Test debut at the same ground in 2011 against England. The veteran batter's decision means he finishes his career with 88 Tests.^[7][9] Khawaja's future had been a topic of discussion during the ongoing Ashes series, where Australia leads 3-1. He had faced a challenging period with form and fitness, including missing the Brisbane Test due to back spasms. Despite this, he became Australia's 15th greatest run-scorer in history.^[9][12] His career featured a remarkable resurgence in his mid-30s, where he scored seven centuries in two years after being recalled to the side in 2022. This period saw him become a dependable presence at the top of the order, playing a pivotal role in Australia's World Test Championship victory and multiple Ashes campaigns.^[6][13][11] Usman Khawaja's departure from international cricket marks the close of a significant chapter. His impact, both through his exceptional batting and his courageous advocacy, leaves a lasting legacy on Australian cricket and the wider community.

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