Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Rory Dollard

Australian cricket icon calls out ‘racial stereotypes’ in sport ahead of Ashes farewell

  • Usman Khawaja, Australia's first Muslim Test cricketer, announced his international retirement after a 15-year career, with his final match being the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney.
  • Khawaja stated that Australian cricket is "still very white" and maintains that "racial stereotypes" persist within the sport.
  • He expressed feeling unfairly treated and singled out for a back injury, suggesting media and former players attributed it to racial stereotypes like being lazy or selfish.
  • Khawaja contrasted his experience with that of other players who sustained injuries after social activities, noting they were often excused as "Aussie larrikins" without similar scrutiny.
  • He hopes his outspoken comments will pave an easier path for future non-white cricketers, despite anticipating criticism for "playing the race card".

IN FULL

Usman Khawaja details ‘racial stereotypes’ in Australian cricket ahead of final Test

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.