PCB expresses regret over Sarfaraz’s hurtful remark

January 24, 2019

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The Pakistan Cricket Board has made the following statement following an unfortunate incident during the second One-day International against South Africa in Durban on Tuesday;

“The PCB expresses regret over the remark made by their captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and picked up by the stump mic during the second ODI against South Africa in Durban. The PCB neither endorses nor supports any comments that have the potential to cause offence, and firmly reiterates their zero-tolerance approach towards racist comments made; in whatever context.

This incident has also highlighted the importance and significance of player education and training at all levels. The PCB endeavors to improve their player education programmes to ensure these types of incidents do not happen again.

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Sarfaraz is one of the most respected cricketers in the world. However, captaining Pakistan is a massive honour and any hurtful remarks by any cricketer, let alone the captain, are not acceptable to the PCB.

The PCB is confident that this incident will not affect the series, which has been played in great spirit with some excellent performances from both side. The PCB is also hopeful that the crowds will continue to turn up in big numbers for the remaining matches to support cricket.”

Earlier, Sarfaraz Ahmed took to his official Twitter account to clarify the incident and make an apology. “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,” he tweeted.

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

“My words were not directed towards anyone in particular and I certainly had no intention of upsetting anyone,” he added.

2/3 – I certainly had no intention of upsetting anyone. 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…

— Sarfaraz Ahmed (@SarfarazA_54) January 23, 2019

Pakistani captain assured to appreciate the camaraderie of his fellow cricketers from across the globe and will always respect and honour them on and off the field.