by: Atika Mehboob TN Sport Pakistan:
Australian opener Usman Khawaja made a powerful statement during the first Test against Pakistan in Perth by wearing a black armband in solidarity with Palestine. This symbolic gesture came as a response to Cricket Australia and the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejecting Khawaja’s plan to wear shoes with human rights messages.
Khawaja intended to don shoes carrying the slogans “Freedom is a human right” and “All lives are equal.” However, the ICC regulations prohibit players from displaying unauthorized messages, and sanctions, including a field ban, reprimand, or a 75% match-fee fine, could have been imposed.
In defiance of the decision, Khawaja expressed his intention to challenge the ICC, citing past instances where similar actions went unpunished. Despite his commitment to the cause, Khawaja acknowledged the potential for continued fines from the ICC, emphasizing the need to avoid detracting from the focus on the game.
Defending his choice of messages, Khawaja clarified that he did not perceive them as political or controversial. He expressed disappointment at the controversy surrounding his stance, asserting his right to stand up for his beliefs, even if they are not universally accepted.
“I stand by what I said, I will stand by that, I think forever. For me, I need to get out there and concentrate on what I am doing, but it is right at the forefront of my mind,” Khawaja concluded, highlighting the balance between personal convictions and the game.
