Akhtar demands apology from Sarfraz over racist remarks

Former Pakistan fast-bowler Shoaib Akhtar has asked Sarfraz Ahmed to apologise publically for his racist comments passed on Andile Phehlukwayo, during the second ODI of the series against South African in Durban.

The incident took place during the 37th over of South Africa’s innings, where Sarfraz was left frustrated after Phehlukwayo inside-edged a Shaheen Afridi delivery.

In result, the wicketkeeper-batsman was caught saying: "Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahaan baitheen hain? Kya parwa ke aaye hai aaj?" which can be translated in English as: “Hey black guy, where's your mother sitting today? What have you asked her to pray for you?"

Sarfraz must explain himself to Media & public regarding his comments to batsman.. pic.twitter.com/Ocx74ry4IW

— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) January 23, 2019

Akhtar — who represented Pakistan in 46 Tests, 163 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 15 T20Is — was not at all pleased with the Pakistan captain’s comments.

“It is very sad news. Although I haven’t heard it completely, but I have heard comments of our captain Sarfraz and I strongly condemn that as a Pakistani,” Akhtar said while sharing a video message on social media. “He should not have passed these comments. I think he should publically apologise for that.”

The development can be a disastrous one for the Men in Green skipper as he might well be without their leader for the rest of the South Africa tour.

As per ICC Anti-Racism Code for Participants, any player or support staff will receive a punishment of four to eight suspension points if found guilty of the offence for the first time, which can also be termed as four to eight ODI or T20I matches suspension.