In a move to enhance diversity and inclusivity within the sport, Cricket Australia announced the launch of its Multicultural Ambassador Program.
This initiative, a key component of the Australian Cricket Multicultural Action Plan, features 54 distinguished ambassadors from diverse backgrounds, including former cricket legends Ravi Shastri and Wasim Akram.
The program aims to leverage the expertise and influence of leaders from various sectors—government, business, sports, media, and community—to advocate for inclusivity and drive positive change within cricket and the broader community.
Among the inaugural ambassadors are notable figures such as Usman Khawaja, Mel Jones, Lisa Sthalekar, Kishwar Chowdhury, Alana King, Peter Varghese, Swati Dave, and Fawad Ahmed.
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley expressed enthusiasm for the program, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome such a dynamic and diverse group as Multicultural Ambassadors.”
“Their collective leadership, expertise, and passion will be instrumental in driving meaningful change and fostering a more inclusive cricketing community.”
The ambassadors will focus on five key areas identified in the Multicultural Action Plan: Participation, High Performance, People and Representation, Communications and Engagement, and Event and Experience. Each ambassador will contribute insights and leadership in their area of expertise to foster greater connectivity and inclusivity across the Australian cricket landscape.
Former Australian player and cricket commentator Lisa Sthalekar also expressed her excitement, saying, “Being a Cricket Australia Multicultural Ambassador is an incredible honour.
“It is a role that allows me to celebrate and promote the diversity that makes our sport so vibrant and inclusive.”
Highlighting the program’s significance, Usman Khawaja, an Australian player of Pakistani descent, remarked, “I am proud to sign on as one of Cricket Australia’s Multicultural Ambassadors.”
“I see the sport as a bridge that connects communities and welcomes all, fostering understanding, respect, and unity.”
The program’s diverse lineup of ambassadors reflects a broad spectrum of cultural backgrounds, including representatives from Indian, Sri Lankan, Pakistani, Indigenous Australian, Bangladeshi, Nepali, and Afghani communities. This composition ensures a multifaceted approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities related to diversity and inclusion in cricket and society at large.
Cricket Australia’s initiative marks a significant step towards creating a sport that mirrors contemporary Australian society, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and collective action in ensuring cricket remains a welcoming and inclusive sport for all.
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