West Indies captain Kieron Pollard has spoken out on the ‘Black Lives Matter‘ movement and nations taking a knee in favor of the initiative. Pollard believes that “Education is important when it comes to fighting racism.” His remarks came after South African cricketer Quinton de Kock ruled himself out of the game over the West Indies due to the kneeling gesture.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) issued an instruction before the team’s clash versus the West Indies on Tuesday, October 26. The board mandated that all SA players take a knee before their remaining games to express support with the Black Lives Matter movement.
You guys know our thoughts on this matter: Pollard
During the tossing, unfortunately, it was disclosed that Quinton de Kock had withdrawn from the match owing to personal reasons. It was then revealed that the cause was his unwillingness to take a knee.
“You guys know our thoughts on this matter. It’s something that we feel strongly about as a team and as a people, as well, and we will continue to do it. Each and everyone has their own opinions on it, but as I’ve always said, once you’re educated and you understand, we will understand you doing it“.
“But I think education sort of is the key, and we don’t want anyone doing it for us in solitude or to feel sorry for us. However, I can only really comment more on Quinton de Kock once we’ve got a clearer picture,” Pollard said in the post-match interview.
Many teams have implemented the kneeling gesture in order to help to the battle versus racism. England supported the West Indies in doing so in their 1st World Cup match. Before their game versus Pakistan, Team India also took a knee in support.
South African captain Temba Bavuma, on the other hand, has come out in favour of de Kock’s choice. He said, “Quinton is an adult. He’s a man in his own shoes. We respect his decision. We respect his convictions,” said at a media interaction.
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