NEW DELHI: Australian cricketer
Usman Khawaja
has pledged to contest a ban preventing him from wearing shoes during a match that draws attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The 36-year-old opening batsman adorned his footwear with hand-written slogans, including "Freedom is a human right" and "All lives are equal," during training sessions.
Khawaja, a Muslim, clarified that his intent was a humanitarian appeal rather than a political statement.
However, the International Cricket Council (
ICC
) prohibits messages related to politics, religion, or race during matches.
In an emotionally charged video message, Khawaja questioned the universality of concerns such as freedom and equal lives, emphasizing that he was speaking up for those who lacked a voice. Despite the ICC deeming the message a political statement, Khawaja expressed his respect for their decision while expressing his determination to seek approval.
"Is freedom not for everyone? Are all lives not equal?" Khawaja said in an emotional video message on social media.
"To me personally it doesn't matter what race, religion or culture you are. I'm just speaking up for those who don't have a voice. The ICC have told me that I can't wear my shoes on the field because they believe it's a political statement under their guidelines. I don't believe it is so -- it's a humanitarian appeal," he added.
"I will respect their view and decision but I will fight it and seek to gain approval."
Cricket Australia voiced its support for players expressing opinions but acknowledged the ICC rules against personal messages during matches. Khawaja's stance has ignited discussions on the role of athletes in using their platform to address social issues.
(Getty Images)
Reflecting on the public reaction to his humanitarian appeal, Khawaja stated, "But let's be honest about it, if me saying all lives are equal has resulted in people being offended to the point where they're calling me up and telling me off, well isn't that the bigger problem?"
In 2014, the ICC banned England all-rounder
Moeen Ali
from wearing wristbands with messages related to Gaza during a home Test. Australian Sports Minister Anika Wells expressed her belief that Khawaja's shoes were a peaceful and respectful expression.
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(With inputs from AFP)
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