Australia batter Usman Khawaja says he is still fighting racial stereotypes as he confirmed his retirement from international cricket.
The 39-year-old will play his final Test in the Ashes against England in Sydney, the same venue where he made his Test debut in 2011. Born in Pakistan, Khawaja became the first Muslim to play for Australia.
Khawaja said he has often been treated differently and criticised more harshly than others. He pointed to backlash earlier in the series over his preparation, including playing golf before a Test, which he believes led to unfair claims about his commitment and work ethic.
He described the criticism as the same racial stereotypes he has faced throughout his life and said he was disappointed that media and former players still hold such views, despite hoping attitudes had changed.
