The whole internet was divided into two groups post-Quinton de Kock’s refusal to take the knee ahead of South Africa’s face-off against West Indies. He was ok even with missing the game owing to it. So what was it that drove Quinton to such extents? Apparently, it was an official directive shared by Cricket South Africa.
The directive made it compulsory for every South African player to take a knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. Throughout their 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, that is. Quinton was clearly not in agreement with players’ freedom of choice being snatched from them. Originally, de Kock wanted to keep his ‘personal reasons’ to himself. But after his action took the BLM supporters by storm, he has now issued an official statement to clarify his reasonings.
CSA shares Quinton de Kock’s official statement
In a recent turn of events, de Kock was involved in an “emotional” conversation with Cricket South Africa. Later, an official statement was shared by him and the same has been shared by CSA. It’s basically an apology.
“I would like to start by saying sorry to my teammates, and fans back home. I understand the importance of standing against racism, and i also understand the responsibility of us as a player to set an example,” quoted Quinton. Possibly trying to correct his ‘mistake.’
He’s now ready to feature in games that follow. Ready to take the knee as well.
“If taking a knee helps to educate others, and makes the lives of others better… I am more than happy to do so,” says South African cricket’s centrepiece.
Refusing to abide by the ‘knee taking’ was made even worse as it came against West Indies, a black nation. West Indian skipper Keiron Pollard also lashed out at de Kock’s “lack of education.” But de Kock has now clarified that he has nothing against their breed. He did hint that some other players also didn’t wanna take the knee. But he didn’t throw any of his mates under the bus. He remained to shush.
“I am not a racist. In my heart of hearts, I know that,” claimed de Kock in defence. He also added that his half-sisters are different colours and his step-mom black. The players know he’s a good human being. Here’s his full statement:
Quinton de Kock statement 📝 pic.twitter.com/Vtje9yUCO6
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) October 28, 2021
While the statement mostly comprised of Quinton redeeming himself, it also quashed any rumours of a rift among the team. Here’s what he says to say regarding team unity and their skipper Temba Bavuma:
“I love every one of my teammates. And I love nothing more than playing cricket for South Africa. I want to thank every teammate, especially Temba. He’s a flipping amazing leader.”
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The last part of the letter comprises de Kock making himself available for the team’s cause. But that’s for Bavuma and the management to decide, he feels.
