Australian Muslim Cricketer Criticises ‘Right-Wing Politicians’ in Retirement Speech

The veteran opener says anti-migrant and Islamophobic rhetoric pushed him to speak out beyond cricket.
Australian Muslim Cricketer Criticises ‘Right-Wing Politicians’ in Retirement Speech
Usman Khawaja announces his International cricket retirement during a press conference at Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney, Australia on Jan. 2, 2026. Darrian Traynor/Getty Images
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As he announced his retirement from international cricket, Australian Test cricketer Usman Khawaja used his final press conference to criticise what he called “right-wing” politics, accusing some leaders of fueling division.

“We get all these right-wing politicians that are anti-immigration and anti Islamophobia, and I speak up against them. I know people don’t love that,” Khwaja said as he confirmed he would step away after the Ashes series.

Naziya Alvi Rahman
Naziya Alvi Rahman
Author
Naziya Alvi Rahman is a Canberra-based journalist who covers political issues in Australia. She can be reached at [email protected].