Usman Tariq Khawaja, born on December 18, 1986, in Islamabad, Pakistan, is a distinguished left-handed batter who has made significant contributions to Australian cricket. Migrating to Australia at a young age, Khawaja’s cricketing journey is marked by perseverance, skill, and notable achievements across all formats of the game.
Early Life and Domestic Career
Khawaja’s family relocated to New South Wales, Australia, when he was four years old. He honed his cricketing skills at the Valley District Cricket Club and represented Australia in the Under-19 World Cup in 2006, showcasing his potential as a top-order batter. He made his first-class debut for New South Wales in 2008, displaying a solid technique and temperament that would become hallmarks of his career.
International Debut and Test Career
Khawaja made his Test debut for Australia against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 3, 2011, becoming the first Muslim cricketer to represent Australia in Test cricket. Over his Test career, he has played 78 matches, scoring 5,635 runs at an average of 44.02, including 15 centuries and 27 half-centuries. His highest Test score is an unbeaten 195.
One Day International (ODI) Career
In ODIs, Khawaja debuted against Sri Lanka at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on January 11, 2013. He has played 40 matches, amassing 1,554 runs at an average of 42.00, with two centuries and 12 fifties. His highest ODI score is 104.
Twenty20 International (T20I) Career
Khawaja’s T20I debut came against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 31, 2016. He has featured in 9 T20I matches, scoring 241 runs with a top score of 58.
Domestic and T20 Franchise Cricket
Beyond international cricket, Khawaja has been a prominent figure in domestic circuits, representing teams such as Queensland and Sydney Thunder. In the Big Bash League (BBL), he has been instrumental, notably contributing to Sydney Thunder’s first title in KFC BBL|05 with two unbeaten centuries and a pivotal 70 in the final.
Champions Trophy Participation
As of January 2025, Usman Khawaja has not participated in any ICC Champions Trophy tournaments. His international career includes significant contributions in Test matches, ODIs, and T20Is, but he has not featured in the Champions Trophy for Australia.
Recent Performances and Current Form
In the ongoing 2024-25 season, Khawaja has been active in Test cricket. Notably, he played against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground in January 2025, scoring 2 and 41 in his two innings.
Off the Field
Khawaja is known for his academic achievements, holding a bachelor’s degree in aviation from the University of New South Wales, and is a qualified commercial pilot. He has also been vocal about various social issues, using his platform to advocate for humanitarian causes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Has Usman Khawaja played in the ICC Champions Trophy?
As of January 2025, Usman Khawaja has not featured in any ICC Champions Trophy matches for Australia.
2. What is Usman Khawaja’s highest Test score?
His highest Test score is an unbeaten 195.
3. How many centuries has Khawaja scored in ODIs?
He has scored two centuries in One Day Internationals.
4. Which domestic teams has Usman Khawaja represented?
Khawaja has played for New South Wales, Queensland, Sydney Thunder in the BBL, and has had stints with county teams like Derbyshire and Lancashire.
5. What are Khawaja’s academic qualifications?
He holds a bachelor’s degree in aviation from the University of New South Wales and is a qualified commercial pilot.
6. When did Khawaja make his international debut for Australia?
He made his Test debut on January 3, 2011, against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Usman Khawaja’s cricketing journey reflects his dedication, skill, and resilience. While he has not participated in the ICC Champions Trophy, his contributions to Australian cricket across formats have been significant, earning him recognition both on and off the field.
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ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A |Â Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND