He was a spectator for the next 10 minutes as Labuschagne monopolized the strike. Labuschagne flicked his tongue into the gully where Jacob Bethell threw away England’s 15th chance of the series, one which, had it been taken, could have destroyed Khawaja’s wish for the day, which was just to win.
After stealing a single to stay on strike, Labuschagne then thrashed Jacks out of the attack for 16 runs, another of the micro-turns that kept Australia on pace with their target.
England players form a guard of honor for Usman Khawaja.Credit: Getty Images
However, Khawaja will play no further role. Surprised by a bounce from Tongue coming around the wicket, he chopped his next ball onto his stumps. There was a moment of shocked silence, but like when he missed a full toss in the first innings, Khawaja appeared to have timed his retirement perfectly.
A six-run 20-minute innings doesn’t usually garner a standing ovation, but this was the end of one of the most remarkable 15-year careers in Australian cricket.
Khawaja received a handshake from Joe Root, another hug from Labuschagne and a pat from the incoming Alex Carey. He gestured with his bat and kissed his family in the stands. He dropped to his knees in a prayerful kiss to the SCG turf that nurtured, nurtured and often rewarded him.
Usman Khawaja is relieving wife Rachel and daughters Aisha and Ayla after his Test career ended at the SCG on Thursday.Credit: Getty Images
He later said, “Many times in life we worry about what we want – we always want more. Is it all about what else we have, what else we want?”
His thoughts as he kissed the lawn were, “One last time to be thankful for what I’ve been given.”
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Few players are so warmly loved by the international cricket community and fewer still have crossed so many barriers and boundaries. When he later returned to the field, having won the match, Khawaja received a hearty handshake from all the England players.
He had a long conversation with referee Raza. Carey saved him one of the pink stumps from the match. Then it was time for interviews and celebrations and the beginning of the rest of life.
“Thank you,” he told everyone. It’s mutual.
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