Australia opener Usman Khawaja has been charged by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for wearing a black armband in solidarity with civilians in Gaza during the first Test against Pakistan. The ICC has deemed this action a breach of its clothing and equipment regulations. Khawaja, who did not wear shoes with political messages during the match, is still eligible to play in the second Test. However, he may face further sanctions if he repeats the armband gesture or makes any on-field statements without permission from the ICC and Cricket Australia. The ICC prohibits players from displaying political, religious, or racial messages during international matches. Khawaja, a Muslim, has stated that his message is a humanitarian appeal rather than a political statement. Cricket Australia has expressed its support for Khawaja.
