After being caught showing the peace symbol during Australia’s training on Sunday, Usman Khawaja has been informed he can’t put a dove sticker on his bat.
The dove is a symbol of peace in many cultures, including that of Palestinians, to whom Khawaja has recently sent words of solidarity as the struggle with Israel continues.
The ICC has denied Khawaja permission to have the sticker on his bat, according to The Age, with nine cameras capturing it being exhibited at training.
Khawaja’s sneaker also has a dove sticker on it.
The sticker also mentioned article one of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” They have reason and conscience and should act in a brotherly manner towards one another.”
He was also sanctioned for wearing a black armband in the Test.
Last Friday, Khawaja spoke out about the ICC penalties over his black armband.
“I followed all the regulations, previous precedents, guys who put stickers on their bats, names on their shoes, done all sorts of things without ICC approval in the past and never been reprimanded.” “I respect the ICC and their rules and regulations,” Khawaja remarked.
“I will be asking them and contesting that they make it fair and equitable for everyone, and that they officiate consistently.” That consistency has yet to be achieved.
“What hit me the hardest was looking at my Instagram and seeing innocent children, videos of them dying, passing away.”
“I just imagine my young daughter in my arms and the same thing. I get emotional talking about it right now again. For me, that’s the reason I’m doing this. I don’t have any hidden agendas.
“If anything, this brings up more negativity towards me. People come attacking me. I don’t get anything out of this. I just feel like it’s my responsibility to speak up on this.
“We live in such a beautiful country. I’m blessed to live in Australia. I can walk outside, don’t have to worry about a thing. My kids can do the same. I just want that for the rest of the world.”
