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Usman Khawaja Refuses SEN Interview Over Controversial 'Peter Lalor Firing'

Soumyajit Dutta

Usman Khawaja refuses SEN interview [Source: @wwos/X.com]Usman Khawaja refuses SEN interview [Source: @wwos/X.com]

Usman Khawaja is in the centre of things after a pro-Palestinian gesture post the first Day of the West Indies vs Australia Test at Kensington Oval in Barbados. The Australian opener, who scored 47 in the first innings of Australia refused to give an interview with SEN.

Usman Khawaja walked away from an interview after spotting SEN’s microphone branding. He had initially approached the broadcasters and commentators but withdrew after recognizing the channel.

Why Did Usman Khawaja Refuse To Talk With SEN?

Four months ago SEN journalist Peter Lalor due to his outspoken support of Palestinians, was sacked by the organization and Usman Khawaja, a Muslim by birth, protested for it.

During a Test tour in Sri Lanka in February, Lalor lost his freelance role with SEN after sharing pro-Palestinian messages on social media. SEN boss Craig Hutchison said such posts were distressing to Jewish Australians, citing fears expressed by his friends. 

Lalor, in his public response, acknowledged the fear but also pointed out the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Khawaja criticised SEN’s decision to dismiss Lalor.

In support, Khawaja posted, “Standing up for the people of Gaza is not antisemitic nor does it have anything to do with my Jewish brothers and sisters in Australia, but everything to do with the Israeli government and their deplorable actions. It has everything to do with justice and human rights,” as quoted by The Guardian.

Lalor Calls Khawaja "A Man Of Principle"

Lalor, currently covering the tour as an independent journalist said, “Usman is a man of principle, and I truly valued his support when I was dismissed. I continue to appreciate his ongoing backing.”

Earlier too, Usman Khawaja has spoken out against the deaths of civilians in Gaza during Israel's ongoing military offensive. The conflict began after a Hamas-led attack on Israel on 7 October 2023. In late 2023, Khawaja clashed with the ICC over his wish to display peace messages on his gear. The ICC ruled the gesture as “political,” despite its broad message.