Usman Khawaja has spoken out against what he described as a culture of racial stereotypes in Australian cricket, saying the sport is “still very white,” as he announced his retirement from international cricket.
The fifth Ashes Test in his hometown of Sydney will mark the final chapter of Khawaja’s 15-year career in the Baggy Green, but the 39-year-old made it clear he was not departing quietly.
The Pakistan-born batter, Australia’s first Muslim Test cricketer, addressed the media for more than 45 minutes at the SCG on Friday, saying he was now “off the leash” as he highlighted what he sees as long-standing inequalities in how he has been treated.
While acknowledging that some of his grievances date back years, Khawaja strongly criticised the reaction to the back injury he suffered in the opening Test against England, claiming he was unfairly singled out. He said media commentary and criticism from former players quickly escalated into racial stereotyping, portraying him as “lazy” and questioning his commitment.
Khawaja said such stereotypes have followed him throughout his life, particularly affecting players from Pakistani, West Indian, and other non-white backgrounds, who are often labelled as selfish or insufficiently dedicated. He added that similar injuries sustained by other players were met with sympathy rather than scrutiny of their character.
He also contrasted his treatment with that of other cricketers, saying injuries suffered after golf outings or nights of drinking were dismissed as harmless behaviour, while his injury led to attacks on his credibility and integrity.
Khawaja acknowledged that speaking about race often attracts criticism, but urged people not to dismiss his experiences. He said Islamophobia remains prevalent and that he wanted future generations of cricketers from diverse backgrounds to face fewer barriers.
“I want the journey for the next Usman Khawaja to be easier,” he said, expressing hope that one day a player like him would be viewed no differently from anyone else.
Describing himself as “the people’s champ,” Khawaja said he has always tried to speak on issues others are unwilling to raise, not for personal praise, but to advocate for those who feel unheard.
