“We condemn any act of racism, abuse or intolerance in cricket”

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Zimbabwe Cricket has condemned the racist chants that were aimed at players in the national team during their recently concluded Test series against Sri Lanka.

Zimbabwe lost the two-Test series in Harare 2-0 and according to reports, the reprehensible language was used towards the end of the second Test.

“Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) was deeply disturbed by the conduct of a section of fans who made abusive and racist chants targeted at our players during Zimbabwe’s just-ended Test series against Sri Lanka at Harare Sports Club,” a Zimbabwe Cricket statement said. “We condemn any act of racism, abuse or intolerance in cricket, in particular, and sport, in general.

“ZC strictly upholds the ICC Anti-Racism Code that confirms a level of commitment from the ICC and its members to promote and encourage participation at all levels regardless of race, colour, religion, national or ethnic origin and to ensure that there is no discrimination in the sport.”

The board has also made it clear that they will launch an investigation and take action against the individuals responsible.

“The ICC code also requires members to impose punishments including life bans on anyone found guilty of racial abuse,” the statement added. “In this sense, ZC warns that it is taking steps to introduce sanctions against those involved in such incidents.

“There is absolutely no place for racism or any form of prejudice in the game of cricket.”