Quinton de Kock skipped Tuesday’s T20 World Cup match against West Indies citing “personal reasons” after the team was directed to take a knee in their remaining matches in the tournament.
Cricket South Africa on Tuesday ordered its players to take the knee before their remaining T20 World Cup matches in support of the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement. The wicketkeeper batter made himself unavailable for selection, his decision came after the CSA’s statement. The team’s media manager said the players had been informed of the board’s decision five hours before the start of Tuesday’s game.
“A commitment to overcoming racism is the glue that should unite, bind and strengthen us. Race should not be manipulated to amplify our weaknesses. Diversity can and should find expression in many facets of our daily lives. But not when it comes to taking a stand against racism”
“Concerns were raised that the different postures taken by team members in support of the BLM initiative. It created an unintended perception of disparity or lack of support for the initiative,” a CSA statement read.
All players are expected to follow this directive for the remaining games: Cricket South Africa
“After considering all relevant issues, including the position of the players. The Board felt that it was imperative for the team to be seen taking a united. And consistent stand against racism, especially given SA’s history. Several other teams at the World Cup have adopted a consistent stance against the issue. And the Board felt it is time for all SA players to do the same.”
Earlier this year, When Quinton De Kock was asked about the same, he said, “My reason? I’ll keep it to myself. It’s my own, personal opinion. It’s everyone’s decision; no one’s forced to do anything, not in life. That’s the way I see things.”
A second CSA release on Tuesday said: “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.”
South Africa went on to win the match by eight wickets against West Indies. The opening batter Hendricks gave a fiery start and hit 39 off 30 balls. The 83 runs partnership between Aiden Markram (51 not out) and Rassie van der Dussen (43 not out) saw the South Africans successfully chase down the target of 144 with 10 balls to spare.