Sky News host Steve Price argues there are likely players in Cricket Australia “too scared” to speak out in support of Australia Day.
“I would imagine that in that starting 11, and within the broader Australian cricket squad – there would be cricketers who are now too frightened to speak out and say I actually support the 26 January,” he told Sky News host Sharri Markson.
“Can you imagine what would happen if you were a cricketer who actually came out and said that.
“You’d be ostracised by the left, you’d be slammed by parts of the media.”
Mr Price’s comments come after CEO of Cricket Australia Nick Hockley had to clarify controversial remarks that he “didn’t believe” announcements about Australia Day would be playing over the loudspeaker at the upcoming Gabba Test in Brisbane on the day.
‘Ostracised by the Left’: Steve Price Claims Cricketers Fear Supporting Australia Day
In a controversial statement, Sky News host Steve Price has argued that cricketers in Australia are “too scared” to publicly support Australia Day due to fear of being ‘ostracised by the left’. His comments come in the wake of Cricket Australia’s decision to avoid using the term ‘Australia Day’ during the upcoming Gabba Test.
Price’s Assertion
Price, known for his forthright opinions, believes that there are players within Cricket Australia who support Australia Day but are too afraid to express their views publicly.
“I would imagine that in that starting 11, and within the broader Australian cricket squad – there would be cricketers who are now too frightened to speak out and say I actually support the 26 January,” Price told fellow Sky News host.
He further explained the potential backlash these cricketers might face, stating, “Can you imagine what would happen if you were a cricketer who actually came out and said that. You’d be ostracised by the left, you’d be slammed by parts of the media”.
The Backdrop
Price’s comments come after Cricket Australia’s CEO Nick Hockley had to clarify that he “didn’t believe” announcements about Australia Day would be playing over the loudspeaker during the Gabba Test in Brisbane. This decision sparked a nationwide debate, with many arguing that it was an attempt to erase a significant part of Australia’s national identity.
The Larger Conversation
This controversy underlines the broader dialogue currently taking place in Australia around national identity, inclusivity, and the recognition of Indigenous history. It also underscores the role sports organizations and their players can play in shaping these discussions.
Price’s viewpoint represents one side of this multifaceted discussion. His comments have stirred a reaction, with some agreeing that the fear of societal backlash might prevent cricketers from expressing their support for Australia Day.
However, critics argue that such fears are unfounded and that all Australians, including cricketers, should feel free to express their views without fear of reprisal. Regardless of where one stands in this debate, it’s clear that the conversation about Australia Day is far from over.
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