Sarfraz Ahmed's Racist Remark to Andile Phehlukwayo

22 January 2019·South Africa vs Pakistan·2nd ODI, Durban·1 min read·Severity: Explosive

Summary

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed was caught on stump mic making a racist comment about South Africa's Andile Phehlukwayo, leading to a four-match ban.

What Happened

During the 2nd ODI between South Africa and Pakistan in Durban, Pakistan captain and wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed was caught on the stump microphone making a racist comment in Urdu directed at South African all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo. The comment translated to "Hey black guy, where's your mother sitting today? What (prayer) have you got her to say for you today?"

The audio was picked up by the stump microphones and went viral on social media, prompting an ICC investigation. Sarfraz initially denied any racial intent, claiming his words were taken out of context and were general sledging in Urdu. However, the ICC found the comment to be racially motivated.

Sarfraz was charged under Article 2.13 of the ICC Anti-Racism Code and banned for four international matches. He also issued a public apology to Phehlukwayo and to the South African team. The incident was widely condemned across the cricketing world and highlighted the ongoing issue of racism in cricket. It also effectively ended Sarfraz's captaincy tenure, as he was replaced as Pakistan's ODI captain shortly afterward.

⚖️ The Verdict

Sarfraz banned for 4 matches under ICC Anti-Racism Code. Apologised publicly. Lost the Pakistan captaincy soon after.

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