Australian Captain Pat Cummins Back Usman Khawaja Over ICC Sticker Controversy

Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, expressed his support for star opener Usman Khawaja on Monday, stating that Khawaja’s effort to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is “not offensive.”

Khawaja was denied permission by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to feature a sticker with a black dove holding an olive branch on his bat and shoes during the second Test against Pakistan.

The logo also included the reference “01:UDHR,” indicating Article One of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The ICC cited its rules on messages related to politics, religion, or race.

Also Read: USMAN Khawaja Denied Permission For Peace Symbol On Bat

Cummins conveyed support for Khawaja, emphasizing that he has approached the matter respectfully. Despite disagreement with the ICC’s decision, Cummins acknowledged the existing rules and the need to abide by them.

Khawaja previously faced reprimand for wearing shoes with slogans during the first Test in Perth. Cummins commended Khawaja’s conduct, noting his principled stance.

During the Perth Test, Khawaja wore a black armband and faced ICC reprimand, clarifying it was for a personal bereavement rather than a political statement. Last week, Khawaja spoke about the impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict on him, expressing a desire to shed light on the issue without any hidden agendas.