Cricketer May be Disciplined for Making Political Statement on Israel-Hamas Conflict
According to international cricketer Usman Khawaja, the black armband worn during the first Test against Pakistan on Dec. 21 was for a personal matter. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has charged him for this action because it violates the regulations outlined by the ICC. These regulations prohibit the display of political, religious, or racial messages without approval. Khawaja wore the black armband throughout the entire Test, and the ICC’s charge came after he was seen training with boots that displayed personal statements about the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. In response to the charge, Mr. Khawaja said he would contest it and that he would not wear the black armband again during the Boxing Day Test. He has criticized the ICC for not banning other players who have used their equipment to display political messages, arguing that the rules should be fair and equitable for everyone. Cricket Australia’s chief executive, Nick Hockley, said they are working with the ICC and Mr. Khawaja to find a way for him to share his message. Khawaja has received support from Federal Sports Minister Anika Wells and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his message, saying that it was respectful and not controversial.
