England cricketer Moeen Ali faces ICC investigation for Gaza wristbands

Moeen Ali might face disciplinary action from the ICC

England cricketer Moeen Ali could find himself in hot water after photographs emerged of the England all-rounder wearing “Save Gaza” and “Free Palestine” wristbands during the ongoing 3rd Test between England and India at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The ICC has announced that it has launched an investigation into the incident.

The ICC is strict on such matters as it’s against its code of conduct for players, which states: “Players and team officials shall not be permitted to wear, display or otherwise convey messages through arm bands or other items affixed to clothing or equipment unless approved in advance by the player or team official’s Board. Approval shall not be granted for messages which relate to political, religious or racial activities or causes.”

This incident has created a storm on social media, with images of Ali wearing wristbands in support of Gaza going viral on Twitter.

Great batting by England but I suspect Moeen Ali's wristbands will be the big story tonight. #Palestine #Gaza #Ageas pic.twitter.com/qHMlErWsJJ

— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) July 28, 2014

This is just after the all-rounder was seen this week raising funds for the victims of Gaza with the Ummah Welfare Trust in, his home town Birmingham.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), to their credit, have provided their full support to Ali, stating that they see it as a benevolent gesture rather than ascribing any political motives to his actions.