In a subtle but poignant protest against the conflict in Gaza, Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja donned a black armband during the first Test against Pakistan in Perth.
Khawaja had written the slogans, “Freedom is a human right” and “All lives are equal,” on his shoes but was compelled to cover them as it violated ICC rules regarding political, religious, or race-related messages.
Despite the peaceful nature of the message, Usman Khawaja faced online backlash from anti-Palestine individuals triggered by the protest.
In response to the criticism, Khawaja posted on social media, reiterating the humanitarian appeal behind his actions. He stated,
All Lives are Equal. Freedom is a Human right. I’m raising my voice for human rights. If you see it any other way. That’s on you…
All Lives are Equal. Freedom is a Human right. I'm raising my voice for human rights. For a humanitarian appeal. If you see it any other way. That's on you… pic.twitter.com/8eaPnBfUEb
— Usman Khawaja (@Uz_Khawaja) December 13, 2023
The Aussie cricketer remains undeterred as he promises to challenge ICC’s rules and demonstrate his solidarity for the people of Palestine.
Fans supporters rallied behind the cricketer, praising his stance and emphasizing the significance of his statement within the Australian team. Many lauded Khawaja’s courage to speak out on such matters, acknowledging the potential backlash he might face.
The online discourse highlighted the division among cricket fans, with some expressing disappointment in celebrating trivial matters while overlooking a player advocating for humanitarian discourse.
Criticism was also directed at cricket authorities, particularly the ICC and Cricket Australia, for considering Khawaja’s mild and non-aggressive statement as controversial.
One post read, “A testament to the rancid inequity of the world that we live in that his simple slogan is considered political and controversial,” while another slammed cricket authorities for prompting justifications to support Gaza. “Utterly insane that a pro athlete has to explain why he thinks all life is worth preserving (the mildest, least aggressive public statement one could possibly make in 2023). Shame on the ICC, Cricket Australia,” read the post.
