South Africa cricketer Quinton de Kock made himself unavailable for the match against West Indies in the Men’s T20 World Cup.
This came as a shock as his decision to remove himself came right after Cricket South Africa’s announcement to take a knee, to show the support for the “Black Lives Matter” movement in all the matches of the Men’s T20 World Cup.
Even during earlier matches, Quinton de Kock had refused to take a knee.
Now, Cricket South Africa had released a statement saying that they had noted Quinton de Kock’s decision and are waiting for the team management report to take any further action.
Full statement:
JOHANNESBURG: 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.
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. 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.
