It looks like fresh trouble is brewing for Usman Khawaja, before the start of the second Australia vs Pakistan Test. As per a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, the southpaw has been denied an application to the ICC, to sport a logo supporting the Palestinians in Gaza, for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. This time it is a black dove holding an olive branch.
It was further reported that Khawaja was seen wearing shoes sporting the logo, on Sunday, during Australia’s practice session. In fact, the same logo was seen on his bat as well.
“I followed all the regulations, past precedents, guys that put stickers on their bats, names on their shoes, done all sorts of things in the past without ICC approval and never been reprimanded. I respect what the ICC and the rules and regulations they have,” Khawaja was quoted as saying by Sydney Morning Herald on Friday,.
“I will be asking them and contesting they make it fair and equitable for everyone, and they have consistency in how they officiate. That consistency hasn’t been done yet.
“When I’m looking at my Instagram and seeing innocent kids, videos of them dying, passing away, that’s what hit me the hardest. I just imagine my young daughter in my arms and the same thing. I get emotional talking about it right now again. For me, that’s the reason I’m doing this. I don’t have any hidden agendas.
“If anything, this brings up more negativity towards me. People come attacking me. I don’t get anything out of this. I just feel like it’s my responsibility to speak up on this. We live in such a beautiful country. I’m blessed to live in Australia. I can walk outside, don’t have to worry about a thing. My kids can do the same. I just want that for the rest of the world.”
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