Australian U-19 squad face sanctions for inappropriate language

MELBOURNE: Australia Cricket governing body is considering sanctions for members of its men’s U-19 squad over social media comments seen as mocking non-English speakers.

The Australian governing body told it was frustrated by the episode during the ongoing World Cup in South Africa, which is reported to the International Cricket Council.

The fallout followed batsman Jake Fraser-McGurk posting “Quarter-final here we come” on Instagram ahead of their clash with India, with several teammates including Oliver Davies and Liam Scott replying in language interpreted as mocking non-native English speakers.

Cricket Australia’s head of integrity and security Sean Carroll warned that the unsuitable language was not acceptable and would be condemnable.

He said players had asked to explain about the actions, adding that such language has no place in society and falls well short of the standards expect as Australian cricketers, he added.

He said the players have apologized for the language and have taken down the posts. However, sanctions were being considered, including education and cultural sensitivity training.