It looks like Australia opener Usman Khawaja‘s plans to show solidarity with the people of Palestine might have hit a roadblock, ahead of the 1st PAK vs AUS Test. The southpaw had intentions of wearing a show sporting a message for Palestinians in Gaza during the 1st Test that commences on December 14. However, a former Australian cricketer has objected to Khawaja’s intentions, noting that personal beliefs shouldn’t be brought to the field.
Usman Khawaja’s pro-Palestine solidarity plan in trouble?
As per Code Sports, former Australian player Simon O’Donnell firmly believed that Khawaja should put out his opinions on his own platform. He asserted that he had ‘no right’ to bring his personal beliefs and instil it on to others.
“He should be able to state his beliefs on his own platform. But while he is representing Australia he has no right, nil zero, to bring his personal beliefs and instil it onto others’, Simon O’Donnell said, as per Code Sports.
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What was Khawaja’s plans?
As per a report in Stuff.co.nz, the batsman has been deeply affected by what has been transpiring in Gaza since October 7.
During one of the practice sessions too, he wore shoes, that read, ‘Freedom is a human right’ and ‘All lives are equal’. Meanwhile, Khawaja told the Sydney Morning Herald, that he would wear the shoes on the first day of play as well.
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Similar instances have surfaced in the past as well as well. In the World Cup 2023 final between India and Australia, a pro-Palestine demonstrator had interrupted the match. ICC has a tough stance on it. Back in 2014, England all-rounder Moeen Ali too had done something similar.
Pakistan vs Australia Schedule
1st Test: December 14-18, Perth
2nd Test: December 26-30, Melbourne
3rd Test: January 3-7, Sydney
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