Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed on Wednesday apologised for his crude remarks directed towards South Africa all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo in the second ODI in Durban.
Phehlukwayo picked up four wickets and then hit a remarkable 69 to help the hosts defeat Pakistan by five wickets. During the second innings, Sarfraz was heard on stump mic addressing Phehlukwayo. In the clip which has gone viral on social media, Sarfraz – speaking in Urdu – is heard saying: “Black guy…. Where is your mother? What prayer has she said for you today?”
After the incident created a stir overnight, Sarfraz took to Twitter to issue an apology, saying he did not have any malicious intent and that his remarks were not meant to be heard.
“I wish to extend my sincere apologies to any person who may have taken offence from my expression of frustration which was unfortunately caught by the stump mic during yesterday’s game. My words were not directed towards anyone in particular and I certainly had no intention of upsetting anyone,” Sarfraz tweeted.
“I did not even mean for my words to be heard, understood or communicated to the opposing team or the cricket fans. I have in the past and will continue in future to appreciate the camaraderie of my fellow cricketers from across the globe and will always respect and honour them on and off the field.”
South Africa team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said the International Cricket Council has taken note of the incident and has started a probe.
“The ICC and the match officials have noted the alleged incident, they have started the necessary procedures to investigate the matter. We can only comment once we have received the results of the investigation, any further clarification or updates have to go to the ICC,” Moosajee said in a statement published in South African media.
1/2 - I wish to extend my sincere apologies to any person who may have taken offence from my expression of frustration which was unfortunately caught by the stump mic during yesterday's game against SA. My words were not directed towards anyone in particular and...
— Sarfaraz Ahmed (@SarfarazA_54) January 23, 2019
