Currently going Australia vs Pakistan 1st test match at Perth has grabbed so many viewer’s attention towards it for some or other reasons. Be it Warner’s slush celebration towards camera after completing the magnificent century or Usman Khawaja‘s shoe controversy. Usman Khawaja has been the star performer for Australia past couple of years
During the Australian team’s practice session on Tuesday, Usman Khawaja wore shoes displaying the messages “All lives are equal” and “Freedom is a human right.” He intended to wear them during the opening Test match against Pakistan. However, he was not allowed to wear it by the ICC, but the 36-year-old promised to fight the rules nonetheless.
Usman Khawaja’s social media statement
“Freedom is a human right, and all rights are equal,” Usman Khawaja said in a social media post. “I will never stop believing that.” According to AAP reporter Oliver Caffrey, Khawaja decided to wear a black armband in honor of those suffering in the Middle East despite being forbidden from wearing shoes bearing the message.
Nick Hockley’s blunt response to Usman Khawaja’s statement
Cricket Australia’s Chief Nick Hockley has commented on the recent controversy surrounding Usman Khawaja’s wish to wear shoes in support of Palestine during their ongoing war with Israel in the Gaza Strip. He pointed out that ICC regulations must be followed, but he supported the personal convictions of every Australian player.
The 46-year-old believes that when it comes to international cricket, the ICC rules are unchangeable, as he stated in an interview with SEN on Friday.
“Absolutely we want to support all our players who feel strongly about certain things to express themselves. But when you’re playing cricket for your country, when you’re out there representing your country, I think those (ICC) guidelines and regulations are in place for good reason.” said Nick Hockley.
It’s something we’ll sit down next week and talk through – Nick Hockley
Hockley said he would speak with Usman Khawaja about the issue post the first Test and added that even if the regulations are to be changed, it must be done so in a manner that is cool and collected. He continued, saying:
“The main thing is there are processes available but it needs to be done in the right way and with due lead time. It’s about precedence and about having some level of control,” said Nick Hockley.
“If you did get into a situation where people were putting forward things that are inappropriate, then you don’t have control. Everyone’s now really focused on the cricket and it’s something we’ll sit down next week and talk through. That’s best done outside of a Test match.” he added.
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