Veteran Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has officially announced his retirement from the international cricket scene, marking the end of an illustrious career. Source: AAP / Robbie Stephenson

However, Khawaja’s legacy extends beyond his statistics on the field, as he is celebrated as a pioneering figure in Australian sports for various reasons.

Khawaja began his first-class cricket journey with New South Wales in 2008. Throughout his career, he faced numerous challenges, including relocating from his home state, battling injuries, and enduring time away from the sport.

Yet he seized every opportunity to make an impact. That included a remarkable return to the Test side in 2021, when rival Travis Head was sidelined after contracting COVID-19, allowing Khawaja to reclaim his place in the team.

Shah said Khawaja had inspired countless other cricketers by proving that “belief, patience and character” matter “just as much as talent”.

Investing in cricket youth

“To get that opportunity to play in a free sporting program, that’s made a positive impact on them. That’s connected them with the local cricket club or association, and they can continue to pursue that as well in the future.”

In 2018, Usman Khawaja launched a non-profit to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing their passion for cricket. Source: AAP / James Ross

“And hopefully, we would see more players like Usman represent our country that reflects the multicultural society that we have,” Lotey said.

“I felt all these things growing up and trying to be an Australian cricketer. But seeing is believing. And I’m here to tell you that you can do whatever you want.”

Outspoken on Gaza

The batter was in Parliament House in Canberra at the time, as he joined calls for sanctions on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and pausing trade with Israel until it reversed a blockade on humanitarian aid entering Gaza.