Pro-Palestinian Banner was shown by the fans. (X.com)
During the fourth day of the opening Test between Australia and Pakistan at Perth's Optus Stadium, it has been reported that two fans were expelled by the security officials. The incident unfolded when two spectators unfurled a banner at the Justin Langer Stand, which was later confiscated approximately 10-15 minutes into the action while Australian opener Usman Khawaja was at the crease. The fans were reportedly also chanting Pro-Palestinian slogans and were subsequently asked to leave the stadium.
Khawaja had earlier stirred controversy when he was seen wearing Pro-Palestine shoes during a training session leading up to the Test series against Pakistan. Despite being prohibited by the International Cricket Council (ICC) from wearing shoes with humanitarian messages, as it violates the code of conduct, Khawaja, who contributed 41 runs in the first innings and played a brilliant knock of 90 in the second innings with the bat in the Perth Test. walked out to bat adorned with a black armband as a gesture of solidarity with the people of Palestine.
The banner displayed a quote stating, "All Lives Are Equal. Freedom Is A Human Right." This message had previously sparked controversy when Khawaja, an Australian cricketer of Pakistani origin, chose to wear the message in support of Palestinian civilians.
Khawaja’s support for Palestine
Before the Perth Test, Khawaja raised questions about ICC rules that prevented him from wearing shoes with humanitarian messages and criticized the world governing body of cricket for not taking action against similar incidents in the past. In response to the restriction, Khawaja opted to wear a black armband during the match.
Australia goes 1-up in the series
The match itself was thoroughly dominated by Australia, resulting in a resounding 360-run victory over the visiting Pakistani squad. Local player Mitchell Marsh was named the man of the match. Australia asserted their dominance in the first innings by amassing 487 runs, anchored by David Warner's impressive 164.
In reply, Pakistan could only muster 271 runs, compelling them to follow on. Despite having the option to enforce the follow-on, Australia chose to bat again, adding another 233 runs in the second innings and setting a formidable target of 450 for Pakistan. In reply, Pakistan were all-out for just 89 as the bowlers ran through the batting lineup.
 "Vaibhav Tripathi")
