Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed has apologised for his comments during the second One-Day International against South Africa in Durban on Tuesday.
Ahmed made the apology on Wednesday evening on social media, though not apologising directly to Andile Phehlukwayo whom his comments were clearly directed at:
“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,” said Ahmed.
“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.”
The incident occurred in the 37th over of South Africa’s run chase. South Africa won the match by five wickets to square the series at 1-1.
Sarfraz was heard saying the following while Phehlukwayo was batting: "Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahaan baitheen hain? Kya parwa ke aaye hai aaj?”
According to ESPNcricinfo, the translation in English is : "Hey black guy, where's your mother sitting today? What [prayer] have you got her to say for you today?”
According to the "ICC Anti-Racism Policy for International Cricket- 1 October 2012", The ICC and all of its members should "not at any time offend, insult, humiliate, intimidate, threaten, disparage, vilify or unlawfully discriminate between persons based on their race, religion, culture, colour, descent, and/or national or ethnic origin (inappropriate racist conduct).”