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Quinton de Kock (far right) didn't take the knee in South Africa's limited overs series against West Indies, July
After refusing to bend, Quinton de Kock, South Africa's wicketkeeper, made himself ineligible for South Africa’s T20 World Cup match with West Indies.
Cricket South Africa (CSA), issued a directive to all players before the match, directing them to make this gesture.
Captain Temba Bavuma stated at the Dubai toss that De Kock (28 years old) withdrew "for private reasons".
CSA stated that it would wait for a report from the team management before deciding on the next steps.
De Kock previously refused to take a knee. It's my opinion. It is my opinion.
"It's everyone’s decision. No-one is forced to do anything in life. This is how I see it.
According to the CSA statement, "All players must follow this directive for all remaining games of the World Cup."
"After considering all pertinent issues, including the freedom to choose players, the board decided it was essential for the team's stand against racism, especially in light of SA's past."
"Why wasn't it planned better?"
Carlos Brathwaite, West Indies all-rounder, said to BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra that he knows Quinton de Kock well and has never felt bad blood or bad vibes from him. I get along well with him, but I would like to hear his reasons.
"I don't advocate forcing anyone to do anything they don't like to do. I understand the point of Cricket South Africa, but this is a pivotal moment in Black Lives Matter.
"There are many conversations and education that need to take place around why you take the knee and what it means. But, for society to change, the first step must be to get off to a good start.
"Why wasn’t this better planned?" Why didn't this happen before the tournament?
During the solidarity show during the limited-overs series in July against West Indies, De Kock held his hands behind his head.
CSA stated that in November, players had three options for showing their support for social equity: standing up, kneeling or raising a fist.
Some South Africa players, but not all, took the knee prior to the loss by Australia in the T20 World Cup opener on Saturday. De Kock scored seven.
Tuesday's statement by CSA stated that the team must take a "unified and consistent stand against racism."
The statement stated that "Concerns were raised about the fact that team members took different positions to support the BLM Initiative, creating an unintended perception or lack of support for it."
"CSA believes that success on and off the field will be assured if all South Africans unite to create a new innings based upon the pillars inclusiveness, access, and excellence."
