Australia‘s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has cleared his stand on cricketer Usman Khawaja‘s stance in the face of a dispute with the International Cricket Council (ICC). Notably, the Australian opener has been barred by the supreme cricketing body from showcasing messages of equality and freedom, including a dove logo and an olive branch on his shoes, during the ongoing Test series against Pakistan.
Australia PM Anthony Albanese on Usman Khawaja’s standoff with ICC
Albanese acknowledged Khawaja during the annual New Year’s Day reception at Kirribilli House, which he hosted, where both the Australian and Pakistan teams were present ahead of the final red-ball match. The PM praised Khawaja for his courage in standing up for human values, expressing admiration for the juggernaut’s courage and the team’s collective support.
” I’d like to congratulate [ Usman 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,” Albanese said.
Albanese on David Warner
The upcoming Test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) between Australia and Pakistan will be the Aussie stalwart David Warner‘s final red-ball game. Acknowledging the significance of the emotional occasion, PM Albanese weighed in on the speciality of the moment when both Khawaja and David Warner will step into the SCG.
“When Ussie and Dave go out, it will be a very special moment, when you walk on to the SCG,” Australia PM added.
Also WATCH: David Warner makes an emotional appeal for the return of his baggy green ahead of SCG Test – AUS VS PAK, 2023-24
Pat Cummins’ opinion on Khawaja and ICC’s dispute
Recently, Australian captain Pat Cummins also voiced his support for his Khwaja, affirming that the 37-year-old’s endeavour to highlight the humanitarian crisis should not be deemed as offensive. Cummins’ backing recognized the importance and validity of drawing attention to broader social issues, emphasizing a supportive team dynamic.
“We really support Uzzy. He’s standing up for what he believes, and I think he’s done it really respectfully,” Cummins said during evening of the ending day of second Test at MCG.
