Racial slur mars Test

An investigation is underway into alleged on-field racial slurs directed at Pakistani cricketers by a member of the South African side.

The stump microphone picked up the comments on the fourth day of the first Test.

Amongst other things it included the South African fielder allegedly calling the Pakistani batsmen “a bunch of bloody animals”.

South African coach Mickey Arthur confirmed the reports at a press conference last night.

“There have been complaints and this is something that the South African team certainly doesn’t stand for,” he said.

“But I think we have to view this in the context in which it was said. It wasn’t directed at any Pakistani player. It was done between overs. One of our players did shout something and it was picked up by the stump mikes.”

At this stage, the matter has not been passed on to the match referee and is still in the hands of Cricket South Africa, who are carrying out an internal investigation.