Cricket South Africa is in headlines again all due to wrong reasons as their key player Quinton de Kock refused to accept his board message of “taking a knee down” gesture to raise voice against racism and Black Lives Matters movement which resulted in him missing today’s most important game against West Indies.
South Africa have lost their last match against Australia in their opening encounter of T20 World Cup 2021 by 4 wickets needed De Kock for this crucial match but a conflict between him and Board might impact Protea’s chances of qualifying in the ongoing round of T20 World Cup 2021 as he is has been a phenomenal player for them over the years.
“Cricket South Africa (CSA) has noted the personal decision by South African wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock not to “take the knee” ahead of Tuesday’s game against the West Indies,” the statement read.
All players had been required, in line with a directive of the CSA Board on Monday evening, to “take the knee” in a united and consistent stance against racism,” Cricket SA continued. “This is also the global gesture against racism that has been adopted by sportspeople across sporting codes because they recognize the power of sport to bring people together.
“After considering all relevant issues, including the freedom of choice of players, the Board had made it clear it was imperative for the team to be seen taking a stand against racism, especially given SA’s history. The Board’s view was that while diversity can and should find expression in many facets of daily lives, this did not apply when it came to taking a stand against racism.
“The Board will await a further report from team management before deciding on the next steps. All players are expected to follow this directive for the remaining games of the World Cup.
“CSA thanks all other Proteas players for agreeing to unite and make such an important public stand against racism.”
However, ICC has also clarified in their recent press release on the racism gesture should be mandatorily followed in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 as we have discussed this with all teams and they have agreed to reciprocate that on the field before the commencement of the first delivery.
