As Usman Khawaja was seen hurrying off the stage during Australia’s celebrations following a 4-0 Ashes series win over England, captain, Pat Cummins showed a touch of class to include his fellow teammate.
Being that Khawaja is a practicing Muslim, his religion prevents him from drinking alcohol. As the champagne started to spray, Khawaja made a quick decision to get off the stage.
Cummins was quick to realise Khawaja’s absence, together with Marnus Labuschagne, the pair called the 35-year-old back to rejoin the team. The test skipper was seen pushing away a bottle of champagne to allow Khawaja to take part in the photo.
Watch this video#Ashes https://t.co/Tg4KNLApjL
— Anand Datla 🇮🇳 (@SportASmile) January 16, 2022
While it was a small gesture, it shows the classy nature of Australia’s captain and it’s just another example as to why he was picked to lead the nation.
This is small, yet significant gesture. Leadership 101.
And that should be enough to endear @Uz_Khawaja to @patcummins30 through the rest of his career.
Awareness is key, particularly in these moments of head spinning success.#Ashes
— Anand Datla 🇮🇳 (@SportASmile) January 16, 2022
Says a lot about Pat Cummins that he had the presence of mind to tell teammates to delay the celebratory spraying of champagne so Usman Khawaja could be involved. Marnus as well. #Ashes
— Andrew Wu (@wutube) January 16, 2022
The celebrations ensued following a battling collapse from England on day three of the fifth and final test of the series. England was poised for one of its best performances of the series as Joe Burns and Zak Crawley built a strong partnership as the visitors were 0-68.
Australia kicked into gear under the lights and they were quickly dismissed for 124 to give Australia a 146 run victory.
