Australia are all set to host Pakistan within the three-match Check sequence, beginning December 14 in Perth. Each groups have some top-quality gamers and followers expect a cracker of a sequence this time round. Nonetheless, proper earlier than the opening Check, an argument has erupted with Usman Khawaja being on the middle.
Usman Khawaja intends to put on sneakers with political message
Identified for his vocal stance on the Israel-Hamas Conflict, Khawaja was meant to make a political assertion through the first Check towards Pakistan by carrying sneakers with the phrases ‘Freedom is a human right’ and ‘All lives are equal’ written on them.
Footage emerged of Khawaja coaching in Perth, donning sneakers bearing hand-written political messages. Confirming his intentions, Khawaja informed reporters about his plan to put on the controversial sneakers on Day 1 of the Perth Check. Nonetheless, this transfer may doubtlessly result in a ban underneath ICC clothes rules.
ICC rules pose risk of ban
The Worldwide Cricket Council’s (ICC) strict clothes rules prohibit the show of non-public messages on cricket gear. Khawaja faces the potential for a ban if he proceeds with carrying the politically charged sneakers, with match referees empowered to take motion.
“Any clothing or equipment that does not comply with these regulations is strictly prohibited. In particular, no logo shall be permitted to be displayed on cricket clothing or cricket equipment, other than a national logo, a commercial logo, an event logo, a manufacturer’s logo, a player’s bat logo, a charity logo or a non-commercial logo as provided in these regulations. In addition, where any match official becomes aware of any clothing or equipment that does not comply with these regulations, he shall be authorised to prevent the offending person from taking the field of play (or to order them from the field of play, if appropriate) until the non-compliant clothing or equipment is removed or appropriately covered up,” states ICC rules.
Additionally READ: AUS vs PAK 2023 – Australia’s finest taking part in XI for the Check sequence towards Pakistan
Pat Cummins steps in to make clear
Forward of the brewing controversy, Australian skipper Pat Cummins addressed the problem in a pre-match press convention. Cummins confirmed that Khawaja will chorus from carrying sneakers displaying human rights messages, expressing assist for the opener’s particular person views.
Cummins emphasised the power of the workforce, highlighting the range of opinions and private views among the many gamers. The captain assured that Khawaja’s resolution was not meant to create undue controversy, and the workforce stands united in supporting particular person expressions.
“He had some words on his shoes. I think it’s one of our strongest points of our team that everyone has his own personal views and thoughts. I chatted to Ussie about it briefly today. I don’t think his intention was to make too big of a fuss, but we support him. He said he won’t be (wearing them),” stated Cummins within the pre-match presser.