“I followed all the regulations,past precedents,guys that put stickers on their bats,names on their shoes,done all sorts of things in the past without ICC approval and never been reprimanded. I respect what the ICC[says] and the rules and regulations they have,” Khawaja said on Friday.
“I will be asking them and contesting they make it fair and equitable for everyone,and they have consistency in how they officiate. That consistency hasn’t been done yet.
Marnus Labuschagne has a personalised message on his cricket bat.Credit:Getty Images/supplied
“When I’m looking at my Instagram and seeing innocent kids,videos of them dying,passing away,that’s what hit me the hardest.
“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.
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“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.”
The dove logo and the reference to the human rights declaration are very similar in size and shape to the eagle with a Bible verse that Marnus Labuschagne has on his bat.
The verse,Isaiah 40:31,states:“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles;they will run and not grow weary,they will walk and not be faint.”
West Indies cricketer Nicholas Pooran also bats with a cross and the word “believe” on his bat.
A spokesperson for the ICC said the sport’s governing body did not approve the application “after giving due consideration to Usman Khawaja’s request”.
“Personal messages of this nature are not allowed as per clause F of the clothing and equipment Regulations,which can be found on the ICC playing conditions page,” the spokesperson said.
“The ICC is supportive of players using their platforms outside of the playing arena to promote human rights,peace and equality and would encourage him to continue to use alternative platforms.”