Following Usman Khawaja’s retirement from international cricket, Steve Smith has addressed his own future, saying he has no immediate plans to step away and believes his experience remains vital for Australia.
03 January, 2026
After Usman Khawaja announced his retirement from international cricket, fellow Australian star Steve Smith has provided clarity regarding his own future in the game. Speaking at a press conference in Sydney, Smith reflected on his long association with Khawaja and addressed speculation surrounding his retirement.
Recalling early memories, Smith said that the first time he played against Khawaja at a young age, it was clear that he was destined to become a top-quality cricketer. He praised Khawaja’s career, describing it as outstanding, and said he expects to be present for his teammate’s final Test match. Smith also highlighted Khawaja’s memorable performance against Pakistan in 2018, calling it one of the defining moments of his career.
Smith noted that Khawaja’s journey was shaped by persistence and hard work, especially during challenging phases. According to Smith, Khawaja consistently found ways to overcome obstacles through dedication, which ultimately played a major role in his success at the highest level.
Addressing his own plans, Smith made it clear that retirement is not currently on his mind. He said he remains committed to playing and contributing to the team. Smith pointed out that following Khawaja’s retirement, Australia will feel the absence of experienced players in the lineup, making senior cricketers even more important during this transition phase.
He added that he is fully motivated to continue playing and believes his role within the team is crucial as Australia looks to maintain stability and performance at the international level. Smith’s comments are expected to reassure fans and selectors that he remains focused on extending his career and supporting the team with his experience.
