Sarfraz Ahmed Suspended For Four-Matches for Anti-Racism Code
Jan 27, 2019 at 2:19 PM
Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed has been suspended for four matches for racists comments on South Africa’s all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo in the second ODI. Meanwhile, Ahmed had apologised for his controversial statements but it could save him from suspension. Thus, Ahmed will miss the remaining two ODIs against South Africa and also two T20Is against them.
Subsequently, Shoaib Malik is currently leading Pakistan in the fourth ODI against the hosts. The Proteas is currently leading the series by 2-1 and Pakistan would like to keep floating in the series. On the other hand, Mohammad Rizwan is keeping the wickets for the visitors. In fact, Rizwan took a good catch down the leg-side to dismiss Reeza Hendricks.
Ahmed will need to bear the repercussions.
The ICC Anti Racist code states, “Engaging in any conduct (whether through the use of language, gestures or otherwise) which is likely to offend, insult, humiliate, intimidate, threaten, disparage or vilify any reasonable person in the position of a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire, Match Referee, Umpire Support Personnel or any other person (including a spectator) on the basis of their race, religion, culture, colour, descent, national or ethnic origin.”
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s standing captain Shoaib Malik said they wanted the services of Sarfraz Ahmed but cannot help the present scenario.
“We wanted him [Sarfraz], but the incident… we all know what has happened. I don’t want to comment about it. But they’ve given me this opportunity, and I want to do my best,” Malik said at the time of toss.
On the other hand, Sarfraz Ahmed will undergo an education programme to promote the understanding and awareness of issue, as per Article 7.3. ICC will get in touch with PCB to decide when and where this will take place.
ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said, “The ICC has a zero-tolerance policy towards conduct of this nature. Sarfaraz has promptly admitted the offence, was regretful of his actions and has issued a public apology, so these factors were taken into account when determining an appropriate sanction.”
Meanwhile, Sarfraz Ahmed will have to bear the repercussions for his crasser comments behind the stumps. Thus, Ahmed will need to be beware of his actions in the future time as these kind of racist statements can land him in trouble.