Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed issues apology after racist remark goes viral

outh African all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo who helped his team win the second ODI match of the series against Pakistan became the victim of racism on field. Phehlukwayo took a four-wicket haul and scored an unbeaten 69 to take his team to the victory line. South Africa won by 5-wickets and things were not looking good for Pakistan.

Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed was heard referring to Andile Phehlukwayo as ‘Kaale’ (meaning black) from behind the stumps. Sarfaraz said, “Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahan baitheen hain? Kya padhwa ke aaya hai aaj? (Translates to: Hey black guy, where’s your mother sitting today? What prayer have you got her to say for you today?)

The skipper has now issued an apology in a series of tweet, Sarfaraz wrote, “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 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 across the globe and will always respect and honour them on and off the field.”

Pakistan were all-out for 203 runs in the match, after 112-8 captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and Hasan Ali helped their revival and took Pakistan to 203. South Africa with an unbeaten 80 from Rassie van Dussen and the heroics from Phehlukwayo chased down the target in 42 overs. The five-match ODI series between South Africa and Pakistan is currently leveled at 1-1.