Veteran opener Usman Khawaja believes he still has “plenty left in the tank” as he looks ahead to the Ashes 2025 while embracing a leadership role in grooming 19-year-old talent Sam Konstas during Australia’s Test series against the West Indies.
Usman Khawaja Eyes More Ashes Glory and Takes On Mentorship Role for Sam Konstas
Usman Khawaja, one of Australia’s most consistent Test openers, has made it clear he is far from done with international cricket. At 38, Khawaja is preparing for a dual responsibility leading from the front with the bat and mentoring rising star Sam Konstas in the upcoming series against the West Indies. With the Ashes 2025 looming large, Khawaja’s focus remains on performance, stability, and preparing the next generation of Australian cricket.
Despite some recent struggles against elite pace attacks like Kagiso Rabada and Jasprit Bumrah, Usman Khawaja remains confident in his ability to deliver. He recently scored a double-century against Sri Lanka and continues to be Australia’s highest run-scorer in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, proving he is still a key figure at the top of the order.
“I open the batting for Australia. So I get out to seam more than I get out to anyone else. It’s just part and parcel of the game,” Khawaja said, responding to questions about his performances against pace.
Since David Warner’s retirement in early 2024, Usman Khawaja has partnered with five different openers, highlighting the lack of stability at the top. Now, with 19-year-old Sam Konstas set to open alongside him, Khawaja is ready to pass on his wealth of experience.
“With young Sammy coming in, it’s an added role to help him along his journey, impart knowledge, and build a strong partnership,” Khawaja said.
He reminisced about the chemistry he shared with Warner, hoping to replicate that understanding with Konstas. Their bond, he says, could offer Australia the consistency they need before heading into the high-pressure Ashes.
Khawaja emphasized that mentoring Konstas is not just about technique but also mindset, sharing lessons from his career that go beyond the field. He is determined to give back to the team and help Australia secure another Ashes series win.
“If I can help Sammy through this journey, especially over the next couple of series, try and impart as much knowledge as I can to him,” he said.
Although many see the Ashes as a potential final chapter for Khawaja, the experienced opener isn’t setting a retirement date. He’s focused on contributing meaningfully and making decisions based on the team’s needs rather than personal milestones.
“I’m not the guy who’s going, ‘I want to play for another ten years.’ I’m very attuned to whatever is best for the team,” he added. “If I’m not in the moment, I don’t think I’m doing the right thing by myself and the team.”
Usman Khawaja’s willingness to adapt, mentor, and perform underlines his value to the Australian setup. The team will be counting on his leadership and runs as they aim to dominate both the West Indies series and the Ashes.
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FAQ
Q1: What is Usman Khawaja’s role in the upcoming West Indies series?
Khawaja will open the batting for Australia and mentor 19-year-old Sam Konstas, who is likely to be his new opening partner.
Q2: Is Usman Khawaja retiring after the Ashes 2025?
No, Khawaja has not confirmed any retirement plans. He’s focused on staying in the moment and contributing to the team as long as he feels effective.
Q3: Why has Khawaja faced criticism recently?
He has faced scrutiny for lower scores against top pacers like Rabada and Bumrah. However, he points out that such challenges are part of opening the batting and that he remains one of Australia’s top scorers.
Q4: Who is Sam Konstas?
Sam Konstas is a 19-year-old Australian batsman seen as a potential long-term opening partner for Khawaja following David Warner’s retirement.
Q5: What does Khawaja think about his future in Test cricket?
He believes he still has “plenty left in the tank” and wants to continue as long as he can contribute meaningfully to the team’s success.
