Usman Khawaja snubs broadcasters after firing of pro-Palestine reporter: Reports
Australian opener Usman Khawaja made headlines off the field on Wednesday as he refused a routine post-day interview with SEN Radio following Day 1 of the Barbados Test against West Indies — a silent yet strong statement in response to the network's earlier dismissal of cricket journalist Peter Lalor.Khawaja, who top-scored for Australia with a gritty 47 on a challenging day at Kensington Oval, was asked by team media manager Cole Hitchcock to speak with SEN commentators Bharat Sundaresan and Adam Collins. The interview, standard practice for standout performers after each day's play, was to be pre-recorded near the boundary rope.advertisementHowever, moments before the interview could begin, Khawaja noticed the SEN logo on the microphone. Without a word, he raised his hand to decline and walked away, leaving the commentators and viewers watching the feed slightly surprised.
Sources close to the team confirmed that Khawaja's refusal stemmed from SEN's controversial sacking of Peter Lalor earlier this year. The veteran cricket writer had been pulled from the broadcaster's coverage midway through Australia's tour of Sri Lanka in February, shortly after sharing posts on social media that expressed solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.Lalor's social media activity included reposts about Israeli airstrikes and the release of Palestinian prisoners — content that reportedly led SEN to part ways with him. The decision sparked criticism within journalism and cricket circles, especially amongst those advocating for press freedom and human rights.advertisementKhawaja, who has publicly supported Palestinian civilians and spoken against the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, has previously faced restrictions from cricket's governing bodies. Late last year, the ICC barred him from wearing peace messages on his playing gear, citing their political nature — a ruling Khawaja respectfully disagreed with.This is the first time Khawaja has come face-to-face with SEN's broadcast team since Lalor's dismissal, and his quiet refusal spoke volumes.- Ends
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