Bachar Houli, Adam Saad’s silent MCG protest over Fraser Anning speech

ADAM Saad and Bachar Houli embraced in the middle of the MCG in a statement of unity on Friday night.

The two AFL stars, who play for Essendon and Richmond respectively, accompanied their captains to the coin toss at the start of the game, staging a silent and simple protest after Senator Fraser Anning’s controversial speech on Muslim immigration.

Senator Anning used his maiden speech on Tuesday to praise the White Australia policy, call for a complete ban on Muslim immigration and said Australians should vote on which immigrants should be allowed into the country.

The proud Muslim men flagged their intentions to protest the remarks before the game, with full support of both clubs.

The moment passed without any great fanfare, but it’s intention was clear and noted by commentator Bruce McAvaney.

“A good sign there, some real strength,” McAvaney said.