AUS vs PAK | Why Did Usman Khawaja Sport Black Armband On Day 1 Of Perth Test?
Khawaja sported a black armband in solidarity with war-affected people of Israel & Palestine [X.com]
The much-awaited three-Test series between Australia and Pakistan got underway today at Perth Stadium, where host opener Usman Khawaja expressed his support for war-affected people in the Middle East.
Khawaja, 36, wore a black armband while going out to bat in the first session of Day 1, showcasing his support towards the civilians affected in the ongoing war between Israel and Palestine.
As reported by The Age, Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed that Khawaja sported the armband as a means of solidarity and respect, which aligned with his statement.
Earlier, CA urged the opener not to wear shoes with political messages, as it went against the International Cricket Council's rules.
However, black armbands are permitted by authorities for players to express personal grief. As stipulated, the player is not required to inform the umpires and the match referee about the reason behind wearing a black armband.
Speaking to SEVEN ahead of play on Day 1, Khawaja reaffirmed his stance and stated that he would challenge ICC whenever possible and not give up.
Here's what Khawaja said
"I am a grown man I can do anything I want, but I think the ICC will keep coming down and giving me fines and at some point it will detract from the game. I stand by what I said, I will stand by that, I think forever. For me, I need to get out there and concentrate on what I am doing but it is right at the forefront of my mind."
"I will try to [challenge the ICC] as soon as possible, whenever it is possible. There already has been a precedent set in the past that ICC have allowed. A precedent set where players have done stuff in the past where the ICC hasn’t done anything. I find it a bit unfair that they have come down on me at this point in time where there definitely has been precedents in the past of similar things."
Meanwhile, Khawaja managed to score 41 off 98 deliveries before being dismissed by Shaheen Afridi. As of writing, Australia are firmly placed at 206 for two in 48.1 overs.
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