Veteran Australian opener Usman Khawaja remains in the spotlight as the ICC declined his new effort to show support for Palestine victims in Gaza before the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan starting on December 26th.
An image of a black dove with an olive branch was observed on Khawaja’s right shoe and the back of his bat during a Sunday training session. The 36-year-old intended to wear shoes displaying the slogans ‘All lives are equal’ and ‘Freedom is a human right’ in the opening Test in Perth, but the ICC prohibited it.
Despite this, his choice to wear a black armband led to ICC’s reprimand. Khawaja responded, stating it was for personal bereavement and nothing else. In the meantime, the veteran had the black dove logo approved by Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers’ Association, both of which granted permission.
However, the global cricket governing body rejected it on Sunday morning. As of now, neither the ICC nor the Australian opener has commented on the latest development in the matter.
“I will inquire and challenge to ensure fairness and equity”- Usman Khwaja
Khawaja has refrained from commenting on the recent development, but on Friday, he discussed the issue extensively, highlighting how the ICC hasn’t penalized other cricketers for bat stickers. Although he expressed respect for the ICC’s rules, he looks forward to greater fairness in the future.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, he stated:
“I followed all the regulations, past precedents, guys that put stickers on their bats, names on their shoes, done all sorts of things in the past without ICC approval and never been reprimanded. And I respect what the ICC and the rules and regulations they have.”
“I will be asking them and contesting they make it fair and equitable for everyone, and they have consistency in how they officiate.”
”That consistency hasn’t been done yet. When I’m looking at my Instagram and seeing innocent kids, videos of them dying, passing away, that’s what hit me the hardest.”
Australia is currently ahead in the three-match series with a 1-0 lead following a convincing victory in Perth.
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