Cricket Legends Lead Cricket Australia's Diversity Initiative
In a move to promote multiculturalism and diversity within the sport, Cricket Australia (CA) has named a diverse group of 54 individuals as their Multicultural Ambassadors. The prestigious group is headed by prominent cricket icons like former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri and legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram.
The inaugural ambassadors span a wide range of cultural backgrounds representing communities from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Australia's indigenous population and beyond. In addition to renowned cricketers, the list features prominent cricket administrators, community leaders and former players.
Some of the notable names include current Australian Test captain Usman Khawaja, elite women's cricketer Lisa Sthalekar, Australians of Bangladeshi and Afghan descent in Kishwar Chowdhury and Fawad Ahmed. Former Australian women's team star Mel Jones and rising talent Alana King also make the exclusive list.
In statements addressing their new roles, the ambassadors expressed their commitment towards fostering a welcoming cricketing culture where people from all walks of life feel a sense of belonging. They will work closely with CA over the next two years to realize the objectives outlined in the organization's Multicultural Action Plan.
Lauding the initiative, CA CEO Nick Hockley commented “This representative group will play a pivotal part in driving real change through leadership, expertise and passion. Their involvement ensures cricket remains an inclusive sport for all Australians.”
With inclusion and diversity as the guiding principles, the Multicultural Ambassador Program aims to ensure the sporting community is a true reflection of contemporary society. Through collaboration between CA and its celebrated ambassadors, the game of cricket hopes to be more accessible than ever before.
