In a poignant moment for Australian cricket, Usman Khawaja will conclude his remarkable international journey at the Sydney Cricket Ground, the very venue where his extraordinary story began in 2011.

The 39-year-old pioneering athlete, who became the first Muslim to represent Australia, will play his 88th and final Test match against England in an emotionally charged series finale. Born in Pakistan but representing Australia with unparalleled pride, Khawaja has etched his name into cricket history with a stunning Test career that spans 6,206 runs at an impressive average of 43.39, including 16 centuries.

Khawaja's international odyssey has been defined by resilience and breakthrough moments. He replaced cricket legend Ricky Ponting during a challenging series against England 15 years ago, and has since participated in six Ashes series - winning two, losing two, and drawing two. His crowning achievement includes being part of the Australian team that claimed the World Test Championship in 2023.

Throughout his career, Khawaja has been both an insider and an outsider, frequently in and out of the national team. However, he found his true calling during the 2021-22 home Ashes series, establishing himself as a top-order batsman. His journey hasn't been without challenges; during the current series, he battled back spasms that temporarily sidelined him, yet he demonstrated characteristic determination by returning to the field.

With Australia currently leading the series 3-1, Khawaja will conclude his international career on familiar ground. The Sydney Cricket Ground holds deep personal significance, as it was where he first played professional cricket for New South Wales in 2008. Just 30 runs shy of surpassing Mike Hussey on Australia's all-time run-scorers list, Khawaja has a final opportunity to add to his already impressive legacy.

His retirement marks the end of an era for Australian cricket. Alongside Steve Smith, Khawaja remains one of the last players from the team defeated by England in the 2010-11 series, symbolizing a bridge between cricket generations. Having already concluded his one-day and T20 international careers, this final Test represents a fitting farewell for a player who transcended sporting boundaries and inspired countless young cricketers.

As Khawaja prepares for his final international appearance, cricket fans worldwide will celebrate a career marked by skill, perseverance, and groundbreaking representation.