Australian batter Usman Khawaja quietly ignited a new wave of conversation on Wednesday after declining a scheduled post-match interview during the Barbados Test against West Indies. The left-handed opener, who led Australia's scoring with 47 runs on Day 1 at Kensington Oval, was approached for a routine media interaction with SEN Radio. But just before the recording began, Khawaja spotted the broadcaster's logo on the microphone. Without a word, he signaled his refusal and walked away, leaving commentators Bharat Sundaresan and Adam Collins visibly surprised on the feed. The interview had been arranged by the team’s media manager, following the standard protocol for standout players. But Khawaja’s unspoken decision wasn’t spontaneous. It marked a rare but clear act of dissent from a cricketer known for choosing silence over spectacle. Though no official statement was made, sources inside the dressing room confirmed that Khawaja’s stance was connected to SEN Radio’s earlier removal of journalist Peter Lalor—an incident tied to the Gaza conflict. Read also: Bumrah to Miss 2nd Test vs ENG - This Player Might Replace Him Backdrop: The Peter Lalor Row and Khawaja's Past Stance The background to Khawaja’s refusal traces back to February, when SEN reportedly dropped Peter Lalor midway through Australia's tour of Sri Lanka. Lalor had posted on social media about Israeli actions in Gaza, including airstrikes and the release of Palestinian prisoners. These reposts reportedly triggered complaints, which the broadcaster cited as justification for his removal. Lalor, in a statement at the time, said he had been accused of insensitivity and antisemitism—claims he denied. He noted that SEN’s management informed him his voice could no longer be aired as it made listeners feel “unsafe.” The move drew criticism from media and cricket circles, especially those advocating for free expression. Usman Khawaja had spoken in Lalor’s defence, posting on social media that calling out injustice in Gaza was neither antisemitic nor a threat to any community. He emphasized human rights and justice, distancing his views from religious prejudice. Khawaja himself has previously faced restrictions for expressing solidarity with Palestinians, including being barred by the ICC from displaying humanitarian messages on his playing gear. Wednesday's quiet protest marks his first direct act in response to Lalor's removal.