Ashes: Michael Vaughan calls on Usman Khawaja to retire on his own terms

Usman Khawaja (Pic: File Pic)

Former England cricket Michael Vaughan has urged Australia's traditional opening batsman Usman Khawaja to retire on his own terms ahead of the fifth and final Test match of the ongoing Ashes series, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

The fifth and final Test match of the Ashes series is scheduled to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 4.

"I would say to Usman, 'Don't let them decide. You decide your destiny'. When someone has been playing for so long, we've just got to let them decide. Usman has had an incredible career and not many get the chance to say goodbye on their own terms at their own venue," said the former English cricketer as quoted by the Sydney Morning Herald.

Khawaja's retirement talks have gained attention, but there has no official statement from him. Later, Australia's head coach, Andrew McDonald, also said that no discussions have taken place with Khawaja about his future in the game.

The left-hander has not opened after he suffered back spasms in Perth. He missed the Brisbane Test and was initially left out for Adelaide, only being recalled to bat at No. 4 because of Steve Smith's illness.

Further speaking more on Khawaja's uncertain future, Vaughan said that he doesn't think of any better way to draw curtains on one's international career.

"If he doesn't do that, he runs the risk of his career ending not on his own terms. I can't think of a better way to say goodbye than at his home ground in an Ashes series. If Uzzie has got the energy and capacity to really want to fight on, yeah, I could see that happening, but leaving in Sydney in an Ashes series sounds pretty good to me," said Vaughan.

With the series already in the bag, the Aussies will look to conclude the contest on a high note. They are leading the five-match Ashes Test series by 4-1 against the "Three Lions".

On the other hand, the Ben Stokes-led England will be looking to secure a win in the final match in order to end the contest with a few positives.

(With ANI Inputs)