Australia’s Usman Khawaja has discovered himself in scorching water after being charged by the Worldwide Cricket Council (ICC) for sporting a black armband throughout their current Check match in opposition to Pakistan on the Optus Stadium in Perth.
Khawaja’s actions got here as a protest throughout Australia’s 360-run victory over Pakistan within the first Check of their three-match sequence. Regardless of the win, Khawaja’s determination to put on the armband has led to repercussions because the ICC has charged him for displaying a private message with out prior approval from Cricket Australia and the ICC.
In line with the ICC assertion, Khawaja has been charged for breaching Clause F of the Clothes and Tools Rules, which prohibits gamers from displaying private messages with out authorization. The assertion additionally outlined that the sanction for a primary offense is a reprimand.
“This is a breach under the category of an ‘other breach’ and the sanction for a first offense is a reprimand,” stated an ICC spokesperson.
This incident will not be the primary time Khawaja has discovered himself on the middle of controversy concerning his apparel. Previous to this, he had worn sneakers with slogans similar to ‘Freedom is a human right’ and ‘All lives are equal’ throughout Australia’s internet session earlier than the primary Check in opposition to Pakistan. Nevertheless, he was knowledgeable that sporting these sneakers would breach ICC guidelines.
Following this ban on his sneakers, Khawaja had taken to social media to precise his intent to problem the ICC pointers. His current protest with the black armband appears to be one other manifestation of his need to make an announcement.
“The game of cricket is a wonderful game. It’s a game that brings people together. It’s a game that’s played in many different countries around the world. I think it should be a reflection of society,” Khawaja had stated in an announcement on social media.
The ICC Code of Conduct strictly prohibits gamers from utilizing clothes or gear to convey messages associated to political, spiritual, or racial causes with out prior approval. The ICC has all the time maintained a strict stance on such issues to make sure that the sport stays free from any exterior influences.
This growth has as soon as once more highlighted the high quality line between private expression and adherence to the laws set by the governing physique. Because the case unfolds, it is going to be fascinating to see how Khawaja and the ICC navigate by this difficulty, which has sparked a debate on the function of private expression within the context of worldwide cricket.
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