As the Ashes 2025-26 series draws to a close, talk of legacy and farewells has begun to surface. Former Australian speed racer Brett Lee He fueled the debate by suggesting it could be the perfect stage for the final Test in Sydney Osman Khawaja farewell to international cricket. As Australia wait for the dominant streak to end, Lee believes the home exit will be a “special” ending for the veteran opener.
Brett Lee is likely to bid farewell to Usman Khawaja
Speaking amid the ongoing Ashes, Lee said the symbolism of the signing in Sydney had been ignored even though the decision ultimately rested with Khawaja. The former pacer highlighted how rare it is for players to end their careers at a place of personal and national significance.
According to Lee, Australia’s 4-1 series win in Sydney adds to the romance of the moment. He pointed out that Khawaja has been one of Australia’s most consistent Test batsmen in recent years and deserves to choose his performance rather than be outdone by the circumstances.
“It will be up to him, but it would be a special way for him, wouldn’t it? A home ground, a chance to win 4-1, but we’ll wait and see in a few days. Just a few weeks ago he was one of Australia’s greatest batsmen and still is.” Lee was quoted as saying by “The Roar” newspaper.
Form, age and increased competition for Khawaja
Khawaja’s recent numbers have sparked debate over his future. In 2025, the left-hander scored 614 runs from 10 Tests at an average of 36.11, including a century and a half-century. While these numbers remain respectable, expectations for Australia’s opening combination remain high.
the emergence of Head of Travis A reliable senior selection has increased competition for places, while Xavaja’s age – he has just turned 39 – has become part of the wider conversation. After a magnificent double hundred against Sri Lanka in January, the Queensland batsman endured a quieter run before bouncing back with scores of 83 and 40 in Adelaide.
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An example out of numbers
The veteran bowler missed the second Test of the series with a back injury but retained his place on his return. Josh English. However, modest returns from 29 and a duck in the Melbourne Test put him under the scanner once again. Lee was quick to defend Khawaja, stressing that his presence in the side was built on years of contribution, not short-term form. He emphasized that Khawaja was out of the lineup earlier because of an injury, not because he lost the confidence of the voters.
Apart from the runs and averages, Lee highlighted Khawaja’s influence as a top-class figure in the dressing room. He described the opener as a role model for young cricketers, praising his professionalism, resilience and journey to the top of Australian cricket. Khawaja’s Test career numbers reinforce that legacy. In 87 Tests, he scored 6,206 runs at an average of 43.39, scoring 16 centuries and 28 fifties – figures that place him among Australia’s most reliable batsmen of his era.
“He’s in the team because of what he’s achieved and he’s not left out because of his form. He’s been out because of a back injury. I don’t know what’s happened in his life in terms of his professional cricket life, but I can say he’s played a very important role for Australia. He’s been a great role model for the young guys.” Lee added.
