 agencies
SYDNEY, Feb 25: Australia batsman Usman Khawaja on Friday ended his association with Sydney Thunder, Big Bash League (BBL) franchise, owing to family reasons.
The 35-year-old has been at the Thunder since the BBL's inception in 2011 and has scored 1,818 runs in 59 games.
"I hate talking about the decision I've made … it is the toughest call I have made as a cricketer because Sydney Thunder, the players, the coaching and support staff... mean so much to me," Khawaja said in a statement.
"It is for family reasons, and while I am leaving, people who know me realise a big part of my heart will always remain with Thunder," he said.
"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."
Michael Klinger, Cricket New South Wales's (CNSW) head, said: "It is disappointing because Usman is such a well-respected member of Thunder. Sydney Thunder and CNSW definitely wanted him to stay, and we offered a highly competitive contract. We appreciate Usman's decision has been made for his family, and we respect and support that." |
