Usman Khawaja leaves Sydney Thunder citing family reasons

Over the years, Usman Khawaja has been synonymous with Sydney Thunder. As a matter of fact, he has been representing them since the inception of the Big Bash League. He has led the franchise as well.

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With 1818 runs in 59 matches, he remains the highest scorer for them in the history of the league. However, Khawaja has decided to part ways with the Sydney-based franchise. He cited family reasons for taking this decision.

On Friday, Sydney Thunder released a statement that confirmed the same. With the impending arrival of his second child with wife Rachel, the Queensland batter wanted to be in Brisbane itself. He said that he hated to take this decision.

“I hate talking about the decision I’ve made… it’s the toughest call I’ve made as a cricketer because Sydney Thunder, the players, the coaching and support staff, and the club’s supporters mean so much to me,” said Usman Khawaja, as quoted by News 18.

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The top-order batter also mentioned that he will always care about the club. Khawaja also stated that a big part of his heart will always remain with the franchise. Further on, he drew light on how he saw the franchise develop, and grow.

“However, it is for family reasons, and while I’m leaving, people who know me realise a big part of my heart will always remain with Thunder. I don’t want people to think I’ve cut my ties with Sydney Thunder because I’ll always care about the club, the players, the entire organisation. A part of that is because I believe I helped shape Thunder from the start. In many ways Sydney Thunder is, to me, like a baby I’ve watched grow and develop,” he added.