Former Australian pacer Brendon Julian has stirred a debate by suggesting that veteran opener Usman Khawaja should consider retiring from Test cricket after the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. Julian expressed skepticism about Khawaja’s chances of making it to Australia’s squad for the Ashes 2025-26 at home, citing the challenges of maintaining form and sharpness as a 37-year-old opener.
Khawaja, a pivotal figure in Australia’s Test lineup, has struggled in the first two matches of the five-match series against India, scoring just 34 runs at a disappointing average of 11.33. His highest score in the series so far has been 13. While he last scored a fifty during a pink-ball Test against the West Indies earlier this year, his recent struggles have raised concerns about his ability to handle high-quality bowling attacks.
Speaking to FOX Sports News, Brendon Julian emphasized that opening the batting in this series has been particularly challenging and noted the toll age can take on performance.
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“He’s 37 now. I know he’s expressed interest in playing until the next Ashes series, but personally, I can’t see that happening,” Brendon Julian stated. “I believe he should finish this series in Australia on a high. It’s tough to face quality bowling with the new ball, especially as you age, when your reflexes naturally aren’t as sharp.”
Despite the criticism, Khawaja has been a key contributor to Australia’s recent success, particularly during their victorious World Test Championship 2021-23 campaign. Known for his adaptability on subcontinent pitches, he has been instrumental in stabilizing Australia’s top order. However, his form in 2024 has been inconsistent, averaging just 25.67 from 14 innings.
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Australia will need Khawaja to regain form ahead of their crucial series against Sri Lanka in the subcontinent next year. In response to calls for retirement, Usman Khawaja remains defiant. He stated that he feels physically fit, mentally sharp, and still enjoys the game. “I’m just enjoying myself. My body feels good, my mind is in a good place, and I’m still hitting the ball well. If everything aligns, there’s no reason I wouldn’t want to play another summer,” he said ahead of the third Test in Brisbane.
As of now, Khawaja is unbeaten on 19 runs off 47 balls in the third Test at the Gabba. Rain disrupted the opening day, with Australia reaching 28/0 in 13.2 overs.
