Australia will face Pakistan on January 3 in the final Test match of the series. Ahead of the match, Australia’s PM Anthony Albanese praised opener Usman Khawaja. Notably, Khawaja has been vocal in his stance for peace in the Middle East. He tried to voice his support for the victims by writing “all lives are equal” and “freedom is a human right” in his shoes.
Meanwhile, The International Cricket Council (ICC) barred Khawaja from displaying the phrases. He then opted for a black armband but was also reprimanded for the same by the elite board. Khawaja did not wear the armband in the second Test at the MCG on Boxing Day and had hoped to display a dove holding an olive branch on his bat, but this too was banned by the ICC.
In his annual New Year’s Day reception before the SCG Test, Albanese mentioned Khawaja on Monday as he addressed the Australian and Pakistani teams at Kirribilli House.
“I’d like to congratulate Khawaja for the courage he has shown standing up for human values. He has shown courage, and the fact that the team has backed him in is a great thing.”
This week’s Test match will be the last time David Warner and Usman Khawaja will bat together as opening partners. Warner has announced his retirement from cricket after the match concludes.
“When Ussie and Dave go out, it will be a very special moment, when you walk on to the SCG,” Mr Albanese said.
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