Usman Khawaja Boycotts SEN Interview in Protest Over Journalist’s Dismissal

Bridgetown — Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has refused to give a post-match interview to Australian sports radio station SEN, in what is being widely interpreted as a silent protest against the broadcaster’s sacking of veteran journalist Peter Lalor over pro-Palestinian social media posts.

The incident occurred at the end of Day 1 of the opening Test between Australia and the West Indies at Kensington Oval, where Khawaja played a gritty innings of 47 runs before being dismissed. As per tradition, he was approached for a stumps interview by SEN commentators Bharat Sundaresan and Adam Collins. Upon noticing the SEN-branded microphone, Khawaja raised his hand in refusal and walked away without comment.

Khawaja has not issued an official statement, but the gesture was unmistakable in its symbolism. It comes four months after Peter Lalor, a respected cricket writer and longtime SEN contributor, was removed from the station’s commentary team following posts on social media expressing solidarity with Palestinians.

SEN defended Lalor’s dismissal at the time, claiming his posts had been “distressing to Jewish Australians.” Lalor, however, stood by his views, stating: “It is an awful situation. But so is Gaza.”

Khawaja had previously spoken in Lalor’s defence, stating: “Standing up for the people of Gaza is not antisemitic nor does it have anything to do with my Jewish brothers and sisters in Australia, but everything to do with the Israeli government’s actions.”

The left-handed opener has consistently used his platform to raise awareness about humanitarian issues, particularly the Gaza crisis. In 2023, he clashed with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over his attempt to wear messages of peace on his gear, which were deemed “political” and subsequently banned.

Peter Lalor, now covering the West Indies series independently, expressed admiration for Khawaja’s stand. “Usman is a man of principle whose support I valued greatly when I was dismissed and whose ongoing support I appreciate,” he said.

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The incident has reignited national debate in Australia over media responsibility, free speech, and the right of athletes to express political and humanitarian views. While Cricket Australia has yet to comment on Khawaja’s protest, the silent refusal has sent a powerful message — one that goes far beyond the boundary rope.