Australian opener Usman Khawaja has revealed the deep emotional impact of the conflict in Gaza, sharing that it left him “really struggling” for motivation on the cricket field. Khawaja, who has been attempting to use his platform to call for an end to the war and highlight the loss of innocent lives, disclosed that the distressing images of the ongoing conflict had a significant effect on him.
In recent Test matches, Khawaja’s efforts to display messages advocating peace were curtailed by the International Cricket Council (ICC), which banned him from featuring the messages on his shoes or bat. However, he is expected to have the freedom to express his stance in the upcoming Big Bash League.
In an interview with Fox Cricket, Usman Khawaja explained the profound impact of the situation on his mental state. “I don’t do these things on a whim – this is something that has affected me for a long time,” Khawaja shared. The cricketer revealed that he reached out to his wife, Rachel, and sports psychologist Brent Membrey, expressing his struggle with motivation.
The conflict in Gaza, marked by the loss of thousands of innocent lives, particularly children, left Usman Khawaja questioning the significance of playing cricket. “Going out and playing cricket just seemed so insignificant, and I’m really struggling with it,” he expressed.
Acknowledging the challenge, Usman Khawaja carefully considered how to address the issue without alienating others. Despite the ICC restrictions, he remains committed to using his voice for a cause he deeply believes in.
Meanwhile, at a joint function for the Australia and Pakistan teams at Kirribilli House, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Usman Khawaja for taking a stand. The PM, while paying tribute to retiring cricketer David Warner, highlighted Khawaja’s courage in addressing a cause close to his heart.
