Indigenous Australian cricketers Scott Boland and Ash Gardner have openly shared their concerns regarding participation in matches on Australia Day, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of its implications.
Gardner, a proud Muruwari woman, voiced her strong belief that it is inappropriate for the Australian cricket team to compete on a day that marks the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, a date that holds significant negative connotations for Indigenous peoples. She poignantly described January 26 as not just a day of celebration, but rather one filled with “hurt and a day of mourning” for many within the Indigenous community.
Boland, who is a Gulidjan man and currently the only Indigenous male cricketer representing Australia at the international level, echoed Gardner’s sentiments, referring to January 26 as “a day of mourning for a lot of people.” Recently, he contributed valuable insights into the development of the latest reconciliation plan, which seeks to foster greater understanding and unity within the sport.
Former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie, who shares Indigenous heritage, has proposed a shift in the significance of the day, suggesting it should be transformed into “a day in which all Australians can celebrate,” fostering inclusivity and respect for all cultures.
During last summer’s Gabba Test, there was an absence of any mention of Australia Day in the marketing materials, although the day itself was still acknowledged at the venue. In a statement, a Cricket Australia (CA) spokesperson confirmed that there will be no Australia Day-themed promotions in future marketing for games coinciding with the date, indicating a shift towards sensitivity regarding the event.
Tennis Australia has taken a similar stance, announcing that there will be no formal Australia Day celebrations during the upcoming Open, continuing a trend established over the past two years where such “activations” have been removed. However, they confirmed that the national anthem will still be performed before the men’s final, maintaining this traditional element of the event.
Justin Mohamed, the chair of CA’s Indigenous advisory committee, is optimistic that January 26 can evolve into a day of recognition rather than one of division. In unveiling the latest reconciliation plan, Mohamed, who is a Gooreng Gooreng man, emphasized that the plan remains a “work in progress,” highlighting the ongoing efforts to engage all Australians in this vital conversation.
“By continuing to listen, learn and grow, we can ensure that cricket remains a sport that truly reflects the diversity and richness of Australian culture,” he stated, underlining CA’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
Among the stipulations in the plan, CA aims to enhance collaboration between various cricket bodies, including Big Bash League (BBL) clubs and community clubs, to host annual reconciliation matches. This initiative will involve providing clubs with increased resources and guidance on how to effectively implement these events.
How can the cricket community promote greater understanding and inclusivity regarding Indigenous representation on Australia Day?
**Interview with Ash Gardner and Scott Boland on Australia Day and Indigenous Representation in Cricket**
**Editor:** Thank you both for joining us today to discuss your thoughts on Australia Day and its implications for Indigenous Australians, particularly in the context of cricket. Ash, let’s start with you. You’ve spoken out about the significance of January 26. Can you elaborate on why you find it inappropriate for the Australian cricket team to play on this day?
**Ash Gardner:** Absolutely, and thank you for having us. For many Indigenous Australians, January 26 is a deeply painful day. It marks the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, which began a long history of colonization, dispossession, and trauma for Indigenous peoples. It’s not a day of celebration for us; it’s a day of mourning, filled with hurt and reflection on the injustices we’ve faced. I believe it’s crucial for the Australian cricket community to recognize this and understand the implications before deciding to participate in matches on this date.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing that perspective. Scott, as the only Indigenous male cricketer representing Australia at the international level, what are your thoughts on participating in Australia Day matches?
**Scott Boland:** I completely agree with Ash. January 26 is indeed a day of mourning for a lot of people, including myself. It’s important for us to acknowledge the history and the pain attached to this day for so many within the Indigenous community. Recently, I’ve been involved in discussions about the latest reconciliation plan aimed at promoting greater understanding and unity in cricket, but we need to take a step back and think about the messaging we send when we decide to play on this day.
**Editor:** It sounds like both of you are advocating for a more inclusive approach to the day. Jason Gillespie has suggested transforming Australia Day into a celebration that includes respect for all cultures. What do you think about this idea?
**Ash Gardner:** I think that suggestion is a step in the right direction. We need to create a space where all Australians can come together and celebrate inclusivity while recognizing the diversity of our experiences. For instance, acknowledging the historical context and finding ways to honor Indigenous culture on this day could foster respect and understanding among all communities.
**Scott Boland:** Exactly. It’s about shifting the narrative. If we can transform January 26 from a day that divides to one that promotes unity, it could serve as a powerful moment for reflection and togetherness. This would allow for a broader conversation about our history and enable all Australians to join in the acknowledgment of the past while looking towards a more inclusive future.
**Editor:** Thank you both for your insightful comments. It’s important that these conversations continue to evolve within Australian sport and society as a whole. We appreciate your efforts in raising awareness and advocating for meaningful change.
