In a release on Thursday (October 28), Quinton de Kock apologized and said he is ‘more than happy to take the knee, days after pulling out of South Africa’s T20 World Cup 2021 clash against West Indies.
After an “emotional” conversation with the CSA board last night, de Kock said he did not, in any way mean to “disrespect anyone by not playing against West Indies, especially the West Indian team themselves.”
Here is his official statement:
“I would like to start by saying sorry to my teammates, and the fans back home. I never ever wanted to make this a Quinton issue. Understand the importance of standing against racism, and I also understand the responsibility of us as players to set an example. If me taking a knee helps to educate others, and makes the lives of others better, I am more than happy to do so.”
“I did not, in any way, mean to disrespect anyone by not playing against West Indies, especially the West Indian team themselves. Maybe some people don’t understand that we were just hit with this on Tuesday morning, on the way to a game. I am deeply sorry for all the hurt, confusion, and anger that I have caused.”
“I was quiet on this very important issue until now. But I feel I have to explain myself a little bit. For those who don’t know, I come from a mixed-race family. My half-sisters are Coloured and my stepmom is Black. For me, Black lives have mattered since I was born. Not just because there was an international movement.”
‘If me taking a knee helps to educate others, I am more than happy to do so’
De Kock said if him taking a knee helps to educate others, and makes the lives of others better, then he is more than happy to do it. He thanked his captain Temba Bavuma for supporting him in a tough period.
“I just want to thank my teammates for their support, especially my captain, Temba [Bavuma]. People might not recognize, but he is a flipping amazing leader. If he and the team, and South Africa, will have me. I would love nothing more than to play cricket for my country again.”
South Africa’s next match is against Sri Lanka at Sharjah on October 30 (Saturday). After this release, Quinton de Kock is expected to play in the next game will take a knee.