Pakistan cricket captain Sarfaraz Ahmed apologises for 'racist slur'

Reacting to the controversy Sarfaraz on Wednesday tweeted that his words were not directed towards anyone.

"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. My words were not directed towards anyone in particular.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," he tweeted.

“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.

On Tuesday during the second One-Day International (ODI), the 31-year-old Pakistani skipper was picked up by the stump mic saying, "Hey black [man], where is your mother sitting? What prayer did you get her to say for you today?" (Abe kaale, teri ammi aaj kahan baitheen hain? Kya parhwa ke aya hai aaj tu?).

Phehlukwayo, who ultimately remained not out on 69, had enjoyed a lot of luck through the innings. He successfully reviewed an on-field LBW dismissal and a dropped catch in the over before this incident.

South African team manager Mohammed Moosajee said that the match officials have taken note of the incident.

"The ICC and the match officials have noted the alleged incident. They have started the necessary procedures to investigate the matter. We can only comment once we have received the results of the investigation. Any further clarification/updates have to go through the ICC," said Moosajee.

The comment sparked a storm of criticism on social media with a host of people condemning Sarfaraz's comment.

(With inputs from agencies)