Brett Lee’s take on a possible farewell to Usman Khawaja
Speaking during the ongoing Ashes, Lee said that while the decision ultimately rests with Khawaja, the symbolism of Sydney signing off cannot be ignored. The former pacer highlighted how rare it is for players to get the opportunity to end their careers at a venue that has personal and national significance.
According to Lee, the prospect of Australia securing a 4-1 win in Sydney adds to the romance of the moment. He noted that Khawaja has been one of Australia’s most consistent Test batters in recent years and deserves to choose his own exit, rather than be forced out by circumstances.
“That will be up to him, but it would be a special way for him to go out, wouldn’t it? Home ground, a chance to win 4-1, but we’ll wait and see in a few days. Just a few weeks ago he was and is one of Australia’s greatest hitters,” Lee said, as quoted by The Roar.
Form, age and growing competition for Khawaja
Khawaja’s recent numbers have sparked debate over his future. In 2025, the left-hander scored 614 runs from 10 Tests at an average of 36.11, including a century and a half-century. While these numbers remain respectable, expectations surrounding Australia’s opening combination remain sky-high.
The rise of Travis Head as a reliable top option has increased competition for places, while Khawaja’s age – he’ll be 39 – has also become part of the wider conversation. After an excellent double hundred against Sri Lanka in January, the Queensland batsman faced a quieter run before returning with scores of 83 and 40 in Adelaide.
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A role model that goes beyond numbers
The experienced opener missed the second Test of the series due to a back injury but retained his place upon return and was dropped Josh Inglis. However, a modest return of 29 and a duck in the Melbourne Test once again put his place under the scanner. Lee was quick to defend Khawaja, stressing that his presence in the squad is based on years of contribution rather than short-term. He underlined that Khawaja was sidelined earlier due to injury, not due to a loss of confidence among the selectors.
In addition to runs and averages, Lee highlighted Khawaja’s impact as a senior figure in the dressing room. He described the opener as a role model for young cricketers and praised his professionalism, resilience and journey to the top of Australian cricket. Khawaja’s Test career figures cement that legacy. In 87 Tests he has amassed 6,206 runs at an average of 43.39, making 16 centuries and 28 fifties – figures that make him one of Australia’s most reliable batsmen of his era.
“He’s in the team because of what he’s achieved, and he wasn’t left out because of his form. He was left out because of his back injury. I don’t know what’s going on in his life, in terms of his professional cricket life, but all I can say is he’s played a big role in Australia. He’s been such a great role model for young kids coming through,” Lee added.
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