Cricket Australia has initiated its Multicultural Ambassador Program by appointing 53 individuals from varied backgrounds in government, business, sports, media, and community sectors as its first ambassadors. This initiative is a significant action under the Australian Cricket Multicultural Action Plan, aiming to promote inclusivity and drive positive change within both cricket and the broader community.
The ambassadors include a mix of former and current cricket players, as well as influential figures from various industries and communities, who will advocate for diversity and support the objectives of the Multicultural Action Plan.
Notable ambassadors include Usman Khawaja, Mel Jones, Wasim Akram, Ravi Shastri, Lisa Sthalekar, Kishwar Chowdhury, Alana King, Peter Varghese, Swati Dave, and Fawad Ahmed. These individuals, coming from sectors such as government, business, community, media, and cricket, will contribute to the five main focus areas of the Multicultural Action Plan: Participation, High Performance, People and Representation, Communications and Engagement, and Event and Experience.
Nick Hockley CEO of Cricket Australia said: “We are thrilled to welcome such a dynamic and diverse group as Multicultural Ambassadors. Their collective leadership, expertise and passion will be instrumental in driving meaningful change and fostering a more inclusive cricketing community.”
“The Multicultural Ambassador Program represents Cricket Australia’s unwavering commitment to creating a sport that reflects contemporary Australian society and embraces individuals from all backgrounds. Through collaboration and collective action, the program aims to ensure that cricket remains a welcoming and inclusive sport for all.”
Ravi Shastri was the head coach of Team India
Each ambassador will leverage their expertise to provide leadership, insights, and support, enhancing connectivity across the Australian cricket landscape. Usman Khawaja, an Australian opener, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, while former player and commentator Lisa Sthalekar also conveyed her excitement, highlighting the unifying power of cricket.
The ambassadors, who represent a diverse array of cultural backgrounds including Indian, Sri Lankan, Pakistani, Indigenous Australian, Bangladeshi, Nepali, and Afghani communities, will serve an initial two-year term.
Usman Khwaja said: “I am proud to sign on as one of Cricket Australia’s Multicultural Ambassadors, I see the sport as a bridge that connects communities and welcomes all, fostering understanding, respect, and unity. As a sport we need to take the next step to ensure we get a greater and more equitable representation of the community as a whole by creating opportunities, celebrating our shared love for the game, and inspiring members of all backgrounds to get involved.”
The lineup features high-profile figures, influential business leaders, and community champions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing diversity and inclusion challenges in cricket and society. Cricket Australia believes this diverse group will bring varied perspectives and expertise, helping to foster an inclusive environment at all levels of the sport.
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