Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has once again taken a strong stand for Palestinians, this time by refusing to give an interview to a media outlet that fired a journalist for speaking up about Gaza.

 

According to media reports, Khawaja declined to speak with the outlet after noticing its microphone during a scheduled post-match interview. The outlet had earlier terminated renowned cricket journalist Peter Lalor for posting in support of Gaza on social media.

 

Khawaja not only refused the interview but also apologized to the reporters present. Despite the incident, Cricket Australia has confirmed that it will not take any disciplinary action against the left-handed batter.

 

Peter Lalor, who was dismissed in February after publicly expressing solidarity with the people of Gaza, praised Khawaja for his principled stand.

 

"Usman Khawaja is a man of   principles," said Lalor. "His support meant a lot to me when I lost my job, and I continue to deeply value his ongoing solidarity."

 

The post-match interview was scheduled following the first day of the opening Test between Australia and West Indies, which is currently underway.