Australia’s veteran opener Usman Khawaja has defended his decision to wear a black armband in the first Test against Pakistan, saying it was for personal reasons and that he had informed the ICC about it. insisted. The 37-year-old attracted attention for more than just his cricketing performance in the Pakistan series.
Earlier, he batted wearing a black armband in the first Test of the three-match Test series against Pakistan, but if he continued to wear the black armband for the rest of the matches, the International Cricket Council It is reported that sanctions may be imposed on Australian players.
Talking to the media, Usman Khawaja said he will not wear the armband for the remaining matches against Pakistan and that Cricket Australia supports him. He also said he told the ICC that he was wearing the armband for personal reasons.
“I no longer wear the armband. I told the ICC that the armband was for personal bereavement purposes. My shoes are very visible so I don’t wear them. I taped it up and left it there.”
“I’ll be honest. The conversations I had with Nick and Cricket Australia were great and very supportive. When I was dealing with the ICC, I was reprimanded for wearing a black armband. On the second day they asked me what it was for and said it was a personal bereavement. I never thought it was for any other purpose. I didn’t even say that,” Usman Khawaja said.
The International Cricket Council prohibits players from wearing or displaying political or religious symbols. This ban applies to all member associations, including domestic matches. Violation of these rules may result in penalties during domestic matches.
The opening batsman chose to wear a black armband as the ICC and Cricket Australia refused to wear shoes. According to Australian media, Khawaja was also refused a black armband, which is usually worn in commemoration. However, the ICC must agree.
“Shoes were a different matter. I’m happy to say that.” Armbands mean nothing to me. I’ve followed all the rules, precedents, put stickers on rackets, put names on shoes, done everything under the sun without ICC approval, and I’ve never been reprimanded. I respect the ICC and its regulations. I will question and challenge them to be fair and just to everyone, and to be consistent in their official actions. This consistency has not yet been achieved. ”
“Cricket Australia’s been very good. We’ve always had a very good relationship. We’re working together. I’ve supported Cricket Australia and Cricket Australia have supported me too. From my point of view, I just want consistency. I was very open and honest with that. I’ll deal with that with the ICC,” Usman Khawaja added.
The 37-year-old’s gesture is a show of support for those involved in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has banned Pakistani-born batsmen from wearing special shoes with the words “All Lives Equal” written on them.
