Australia’s star batsman Usman Khawaja is now at that point of his career where his focus is not just on scoring runs or cementing his place. At the age of 38, Khawaja is now busy strengthening his team and preparing new players.
In particular, he is helping young Sam Constas to settle in Test cricket. Speaking to Cricbuzz in Barbados, Khawaja clearly said,
“I am now playing for the team, not for myself.”
Test career will be judged by mentorship
Khwaja believes that his Test career will now be judged not just by his scorecard, but by his mentorship. He wants to guide a young player like Sam Constas, who is going to be his new opening pair in Australia’s top order.
During the practice session at Kensington Oval in Barbados, Khawaja gave tips to Konstas. He wants Konstas to be comfortable on the pitch and bat smartly instead of attacking every ball.
Khwaja said, “I will not be there forever, but it is important for me to show Sammy the right path.”
Khwaja has also got a chance to bat with Sam in the past, when Konstas made a brilliant start at the MCG.
Khwaja is sure that Konstas will play at the top for Australia for a long time in the future.
He says, “I have played with legends like Ricky Ponting, Michael Hussey. Whatever I have learned, I want to give it to Sammy. More than technique, I am helping him in the mental game.”
After the retirement of David Warner, Australia’s top order is changing frequently. Khawaja wants him and Konstas to stabilize this place together.
He says that his pairing with Warner was so good because they understood each other’s batting. Now he wants to create the same rapport with Constas, especially before a big series like the Ashes.
Will Khawaja retire or not?
Khwaja avoided the talk of retirement. People raise questions about his age and recent form, but Khawaja’s answer is,
“I scored a lot of runs in the last two years. I can still give my best for the team.”
He also does not say anything about the Ashes Test to be held in Sydney in 2026. He just says,
“When the time comes, we will see. Right now the plan is to win the series and play well.”
