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Renowned Australian journalist Malcolm Conn has taken aim at the International Cricket Council (ICC), accusing the sport’s governing body of “staggering hypocrisy” following a controversial social media post by ICC chairman Jay Shah.
Shah stirred criticism after he posted a statement on Instagram expressing solidarity with the Indian armed forces amid recent border tensions with Pakistan.
“Our Armed Forces are our pride, and no words are enough to express their valour and commitment in protecting our motherland and people,” Shah wrote.
“We salute our brave men and women in the armed forces who are shielding our nation from terrorism. Let us unite to honour our heroes and build a stronger, more united India.”
While the post was later deleted, it raised eyebrows internationally, especially given the position of Jay Shah as the head of a supposedly neutral global body.
Malcolm Conn, the former chief cricket writer at the Sydney Morning Herald, questioned the ICC’s silence, particularly in contrast to its treatment of Usman Khawaja during Australia’s Test series against Pakistan in December 2023.
Khawaja, born in Pakistan and a practising Muslim, had planned a subtle protest by wearing shoes bearing the messages: “Freedom is a human right” and “All lives are equal” in support of human rights amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
However, after being informed that it violated ICC regulations, he withdrew the idea and instead wore a black armband during the first Test.
Despite the toned-down gesture, the ICC reprimanded Khawaja, citing it as a “personal message”, sparking widespread debate over double standards.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Conn criticised the ICC for its approach to political messaging, particularly for appearing to favour certain voices over others.
“So Usman Khawaja is banned by the ICC from putting a dove on his bat supporting peace in the Middle East, but ICC chairman Jay Shah, son of India’s home affairs minister, can openly support the Indian military during conflict.
Staggering hypocrisy,” he posted.
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