The PCB has expressed disappointment over the ICC’s decision to suspend Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed for four matches after he had issued an apology on Twitter and in person to Andile Phehlukwayo – the player who was the subject of his racist taunt at Kingsmead. South Africa captain Faf du Plessis later said in response that his side had forgiven Sarfraz.
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“The PCB notes the ICC decision on Sarfaraz Ahmed with its utmost disappointment,” the release said. “PCB had anticipated that the matter had been resolved amicably between the two players and the two boards following Sarafraz Ahmed’s public apologies, which were accepted by the player, the board and South Africa cricket team.
“The PCB will be pursuing this matter at the ICC forums with the objective to bring reforms to the code, promoting amicable resolutions to issues as opposed to penalties. Having said that, the PCB reiterates its zero-tolerance approach towards racist comments and behavior.”
Sarfraz’s taunt came during the Durban ODI on Tuesday. He was caught on the broadcast stump mic saying, in Urdu: “Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahaan baitheen hain? Kya parwa ke aaye hai aaj?”
Translated literally that is: “Hey black guy, where’s your mother sitting today? What [prayer] have you got her to say for you today?”
More to follow…