Australia's Multicultural Ambassadors are Ravi Shastri and Wasim Akram

Inaugural ambassadors include Usman Khawaja, Mel Jones, Wasim Akram, Ravi Shastri, Lisa Sthalekar, Kishwar Chowdhury, Alana King, Peter Varghese, Swati Dave and Fawad Ahmed.

Cricket Australia has chosen former India coach Ravi Shastri and former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram as its two-year Multicultural Ambassadors.

The ambassadors, who were appointed for a two-year term, are from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds, including Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Indigenous Australian, Bangladeshi, Nepali, and Afghani communities.

Several prominent figures from the past and present, as well as leaders from the business and community, are on the list of ambassadors. They will promote diversity and help achieve the objectives stated in the Multicultural Action Plan.

“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,” stated Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley. “The Multicultural Ambassador Program represents Cricket Australia’s unwavering commitment to creating a sport that reflects contemporary Australian society and embraces individuals from all backgrounds. Through collaboration and collective action, the program aims to ensure that cricket remains a welcoming and inclusive sport for all.”

Australia’s Test opener Usman Khwaja has lauded Cricket Australia’s initiative and noted: “As a sport we need to take the next step to ensure we get a greater and more equitable representation of the community as a whole by creating opportunities, celebrating our shared love for the game, and inspiring members of all backgrounds to get involved.”

Lisa Sthalekar, a former Australian women's cricket player, believes that cricket can bring individuals from different backgrounds together.

“It’s a role that allows me to celebrate and promote the diversity that makes our sport so vibrant and inclusive,” she remarked. “I am committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome and inspired to be a part of the game,” concluded Sthalekar.”