Mark Boucher apologises for historic racism in affidavit to SJN hearings

PORT ELIZABETH, SOUTH AFRICA - JANUARY 19: Proteas head coach, Mark Boucher at the postmatch press conference during day 4 of the 3rd Test match between South Africa and England at St Georges Park on January 19, 2020 in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. (Photo by Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images)

Mark Boucher has apologised for the racist behaviour during his playing days for South Africa in a statement to an SJN hearing on allegations of said historic discrimination. Boucher made his affidavit public, and has encouraged any player who so desires to read its contents so that there are no doubts or distractions during the Proteas’ upcoming tour to Sri Lanka.

Boucher admitted to singing songs of an offensive nature towards former teammate Paul Adams, calling the spinner a “brown s***”. The head coach apologised for having caused anyone any mental harm and regretted his lack of sensitivity on the matter. He declared that at the time the team considered it banter, but that was clearly not the case for the whole dressing room.

South Africa are due to depart for Sri Lanka on 25th August, and Boucher has asked for the noise around the hearing and affidavit to quieten as the team seeks success on the field. His wishes for all involved to move forward may be complicated by the ongoing investigation and seriousness of the accusations.

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