Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has chosen not to wear shoes bearing messages related to the situation in Palestine during the first Test against Pakistan, as confirmed by team captain Pat Cummins. Despite having handwritten slogans like “Freedom is a human right” and “All lives are equal” on his footwear during practice sessions, Khawaja decided against sporting them in the match, adhering to International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations prohibiting political, religious, or racial messages during matches.
In a media address, Cummins explained that he had a brief conversation with Khawaja, who expressed his decision not to make a significant fuss about the matter. Cummins emphasized that Khawaja might not be fully aware of the ICC guidelines regarding such messages.
“I spoke to him just quickly, and he said he won’t be. Uzzie doesn’t want to make too big of a fuss,” Cummins stated.
Khawaja, with Pakistani roots and a Muslim background, had previously shared a UNICEF video on Instagram, expressing concerns about the humanitarian situation in Palestine. His decision aligns with Cricket Australia’s support for players expressing personal views while acknowledging the need to comply with the ICC’s strict regulations on messages and symbols during international matches.
“This is not about making a statement. I don’t want to make it about me. It’s just something I feel in my heart, and it’s just how I want to represent myself and my people,” Khawaja mentioned in an earlier statement, reflecting his intent behind the messages.
This incident draws parallels to the 2014 ban on England all-rounder Moeen Ali for wearing wristbands with messages supporting Gaza and Palestine during a Test. The ICC has consistently maintained its stance against political expressions on the field, evident in incidents like MS Dhoni being denied permission to wear gloves with the Indian Army insignia during the ICC World Cup 2019.
The episode involving Khawaja underscores the delicate balance players must strike between personal expression and adherence to established cricketing regulations.
Note: The article title “Uzzie doesn’t want to make too big of a fuss’ – Pat Cummins clears air on Khawaja opting against wearing Palestine message on shoes” is retained.
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