“Very grateful to have been accepted by the organisation all those years ago. Never thought growing up that I’d end up living and loving this beautiful state. But it’s home and my heart will always be here,” said Usman Khawaja, reflecting on his journey in cricket as he concluded his first-class career.

Khawaja’s statement comes in the wake of Queensland’s disappointing performance in the Sheffield Shield, where they failed to qualify for the final. The team was bowled out for just 178 runs in their first innings against Tasmania, marking a significant moment in Khawaja’s cricketing narrative.

As Queensland’s hopes dwindled, Khawaja was absent from the match, awaiting the birth of his third child. This personal milestone coincided with the end of his professional cricketing journey, as he had already announced his retirement from Test cricket in January 2026.

Over the course of his illustrious career, Khawaja amassed an impressive total of 15,589 runs in 229 first-class games, maintaining an average of 43.18. His remarkable statistics include 43 centuries and 74 fifties, showcasing his consistency and skill on the field.

In the Sheffield Shield alone, Khawaja played 93 matches, scoring 6,510 runs at an average of 46.83. His contributions to the tournament have been significant, and he is regarded as one of the key players in Queensland’s cricketing history.

Khawaja’s Test career is equally noteworthy, with 6,229 runs in 88 matches at an average of 42.95. His performances have left an indelible mark on Australian cricket, and he is celebrated for his resilience and dedication to the sport.

What observers say

As the cricketing community reflects on Khawaja’s career, many express admiration for his achievements and contributions. His journey from a young boy dreaming of cricket to a celebrated player in Queensland is a testament to his hard work and passion for the game. The future remains bright for Khawaja, with fans eagerly anticipating his next steps after this significant chapter in his life.