Usman Khawaja, the former Australian cricketer, has written candidly about his experiences with Islamophobia and racism throughout his career, describing how hate can 'build up' and 'chip away at someone's sense of belonging'. In a personal essay, Khawaja reflected on his journey from a diverse western Sydney childhood to representing Australia, and the challenges of being a Muslim in the public eye.
Growing Up in Western Sydney
Khawaja recalled that diversity was simply a fact of life in his neighbourhood, not a government talking point. He noted that early prejudice he faced was not specifically because he was Muslim, but because he was 'the brown kid'. 'Racism rarely shouts. More often, it whispers that perhaps you don't quite belong,' he wrote.
Feeling Like an Outsider in the Australian Team
Despite cricket being a meritocracy on the scorecard, Khawaja said he sometimes felt like an outsider even after reaching the national team. 'When you're one of very few people who look like you, pray like you or share your background, you become constantly aware of your difference,' he explained. He emphasised that inclusion is deeper than diversity campaigns; it is about creating an environment where no one wonders if they truly belong.
The Christchurch Mosque Shootings and Reporting Islamophobia
The 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, where 51 worshippers were killed, changed the conversation for Khawaja. He noted that hatred begins with words and stereotypes, not violence. This prompted him to support the Reporting Islamophobia campaign, led by special envoy Aftab Malik. 'Too often, anti-Muslim abuse is brushed off as just "online" or "someone's opinion". But hate can build up. Every insult, threat and abusive message chips away at someone's sense of belonging,' Khawaja wrote. He urged reporting such incidents to provide evidence for governments and platforms to act.
Shift from Cricket to Faith
Khawaja observed that over time, public focus shifted from his batting technique to his faith. 'The cricketer disappeared behind the Muslim,' he said. His wife, an Australian who converted to Islam, has often received more abuse than he has. 'Prejudice never just affects one person. It reaches families, children and whole communities,' he added.
Muslim Values and Australian Identity
Khawaja stressed that most Muslims want what all Australians want: a good life, family, community contribution, and peace to practise their faith. He highlighted values like modesty, kindness, and respect, arguing they strengthen Australian society. 'Australia has given me opportunities my parents could hardly have imagined. Every time I pull on the baggy green, I do so with huge pride,' he said.
Hope for the Next Generation
Khawaja concluded with a message of hope for young Muslims: 'I hope the next young Muslim kid growing up in western Sydney won't spend time wondering whether they belong. They will simply pick up a bat, walk to the crease and know that the only thing anyone cares about is how they play.' He described that as 'an Australia worth batting for'.
Khawaja played for Australia from 2011 to 2026, becoming the first Muslim to represent the country in Test cricket during the 2011 Sydney Ashes Test.
