International cricketers who retired in 2026

With just two months in 2026, a few big names called time on their career. Here’s a look at the international cricketers who retired in 2026

The year 2026 has just began and it has already marked the end of an era for several prominent names in international cricket. While some players bowed out after long and decorated careers, others quietly stepped away following selection setbacks or format-specific retirements.

From Australia’s Ashes stalwarts to explosive white-ball batters and bowlers, international cricket witnessed significant transitions during the year. Unlike mass retirements seen post-World Cups in previous seasons, 2026 retirements are more individual and deeply personal, shaped by fitness, form, and the emergence of younger talent.

Here’s a detailed look at the international cricketers who retired in 2026, leaving behind lasting legacies for their respective nations.

A list of international cricketers retired in 2026

1. Usman Khawaja (Australia) – All formats

Usman Khawaja officially retired from international cricket after featuring in the fifth Ashes Test in January 2026, marking a fitting farewell at the highest stage. Interestingly, Khawaja both began and ended his Test journey in Ashes cricket, having made his debut at the same venue during the 2010–11 Ashes series.

Over an illustrious Test career, Khawaja amassed 6,229 runs in 88 Tests at an impressive average of 42.95, including 16 centuries. Known for his composure, adaptability, and ability to bat long hours, he became one of Australia’s most reliable top-order batters across conditions.

In limited-overs cricket, Khawaja represented Australia in 40 ODIs, scoring 1,554 runs at an excellent average of 42, including two centuries. Though T20 cricket was never his primary domain, he featured in nine T20Is, scoring 241 runs. Khawaja’s career stands as a testament to perseverance and late-career excellence.

2. Kane Richardson (Australia) – All formats

Australian fast bowler Kane Richardson announced his retirement from international cricket in January 2026, bringing an end to a 17-year professional career. Richardson made his international debut against Sri Lanka in 2013 and quickly carved a niche as a dependable white-ball specialist.

Across 25 ODIs and 36 T20Is, Richardson picked up an impressive 84 international wickets, often delivering crucial breakthroughs with his variations and death-over skills. While injuries limited his consistency at the highest level, Richardson remained a valued squad member during Australia’s white-ball rebuild phase in the mid-2010s.

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