PCB expresses regret over Sarfraz's remarks in Durban ODI

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expressed its regret over the uncalled-for remarks issued by the skipper Sarfraz Ahmed during the second One-day International against South Africa in Durban, in a statement released on Wednesday.

“The PCB expresses regret over the remark made by their captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and picked up by the stump mic during the second ODI against South Africa in Durban," it said, "the PCB neither endorses nor supports any comments that have the potential to cause offence, and firmly reiterates their zero-tolerance approach towards racist comments made; in whatever context.”

.

Skipper Sarfraz apologises over his 'expression of frustration'

The Pakistan captain said that his words were not directed towards anyone in particular

.

The board said that the incident has also highlighted the importance and significance of player education and training at all levels. 

The PCB vows to improve their player education programmes to ensure these types of incidents do not happen again.

The board said that Sarfaraz is one of the most respected cricketers in the world. However, captaining Pakistan is a massive honour and any hurtful remarks by any cricketer, let alone the captain, are not acceptable to the PCB.

“The PCB is confident that this incident will not affect the series, which has been played in great spirit with some excellent performances from both side. The PCB is also hopeful that the crowds will continue to turn up in big numbers for the remaining matches to support cricket,” the statement concluded.

During the 37th over of South Africa's chase in the second ODI in Durban, Sarfraz was caught on the stump mics taunting the batsman, in Urdu: "Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahaan baitheen hain? Kya parwa ke aaye hai aaj?.”

Literal translation: "Hey black guy, where's your mother sitting today? What [prayer] have you got her to say for you today?"