Time to move forward

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed is having a tough time in South Africa. His team suffered a demoralising 3-0 whitewash in the five-day format and is now behind 2-1 in the five-match series ODI with only two remaining to be played.

But something which truly brought the wicketkeeper-batsman in a negative spotlight is his on-field racist remarks against South Africa’s all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo during the second ODI. The Karachi-born cricketer was caught on stump mic saying, “Abey kaale, teri ammi aaj kahaan baitheen hain? Kya parhwa ke aaya hai aaj?” which can be translated into English as, “Hey black man, where’s your mother sitting today? What have you asked her to pray for you?”

Following that, the 31-year-old drew severe criticism from cricketing circles within the country, as fans and former cricketers asked for a severe punishment. Former fast-bowler Shoaib Akhtar demanded apology from Sarfraz in his video on social media. “It is very sad news … He should not have passed these comments. I think he should publically apologise for that,” said Akhtar.

As a Pakistani and a member of civilised world, racism is something which is totally unacceptable and it should always be, as nothing can justify racist slur on any individual based on their skin colour. However, Sarfraz is perhaps one of the most uncontroversial player Pakistan has had in the recent past whose conduct is unquestionable in nearly every circumstances.

Looking back at his track record, Sarfraz deserves a chance to redeem and it should, therefore, be the time to move forward. The Quetta Gladiators captain has already apologised to cricket fans on social media as well as Phehlukwayo in person. The punishment matter should, therefore, be left to the ICC and the focus should move back to the game which is being played in high spirit.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2019.

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