Wasim Akram says Sarfraz needs to be more ‘responsible’ amid racist comment controversy

Pakistan former captain and legendary fast bowler, Wasim Akram has stated that skipper Sarfraz Ahmed needs to be more ‘responsible,’ after the cricket captain got himself involved in a racist comment controversy in South Africa.

“Mistaken happen, but the idea here is to learn from it. The sense with which Sarfraz uttered those comments was not negative, but the thing is Sarfraz is a role model for the whole country, because he is the captain of the Pakistan cricket team,” said Akram, while talking to local media

During the second one-day international in Durban, a controversial statement by Sarfraz for Andile Phehlukwayo was caught by the stumps mics. “Hey black guy, where’s your mother sitting today? What (prayer) have you got her to say for you today,” Sarfraz was heard saying in Urdu.

Since then, the skipper has been strongly condemned by cricketers and fans alike. “He should have been responsible… but I can imagine that he uttered those remarks under pressure. However, he needs to be more responsible with his words even if they are said on a lighter note or in frustration,” said Akram.

Akram also stated that ex-cricketers should need to ‘sensibly support’ Sarfraz, and let the ICC and PCB do their job.

The skipper has apologized for his comments, in a series of tweets.  “I wish to extend my sincere apologies to any person who may have taken offence from my expression of frustration which was unfortunately caught by the stump mic during yesterday’s game against SA,” said Sarfraz.

“My words were not directed towards anyone in particular and I certainly had no intention of upsetting anyone. I did not even mean for my words to be heard, understood or communicated to the opposing team or the cricket fans. I have in the past and will continue in future to appreciate the camaraderie of my fellow cricketers from across the globe and will always respect and honour them on and off the field,” he added.