Spectator slapped with a three years ban for racist graffiti aimed at Hashim Amla

Cricket Australia has slapped a 24-year-old spectator for a racist graffiti directed towards South Africa Hashim Amla. It is reported that the youngster wrote an offensive message on the fence facing the crowd. The shameful incident took place during the third day’s play of the ongoing 2nd Test at the Bellerive Oval, Hobart, Tasmania. Police have confirmed that the 24-year old from Longford in Tasmania’s north has been charged on summons.

“Cricket Australia and Cricket Tasmania can confirm a crowd behaviour issue that occurred on day one of the Commonwealth Bank Test match against South Africa in Hobart,” a Cricket Australia spokesperson said.

“Tasmania Police identified the person of interest through CCTV and witnesses in the area. Cricket Australia has issued the person with a three-year ban from any Cricket Australia match, nationally.

“Cricket Australia takes a zero-tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour at any of our matches, which includes racial vilification.

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“Our message to any fan attending a match is that if you display anti-social behavior, you will be removed and risk being banned from any cricket match across Australia, as well as police action being taken.”

Cricket South Africa also issued a statement on the matter: “We have been informed that the man has been formally charged and has been handed a three-year ban from the stadium.

“From our point of view, it is disappointing and disconcerting because this is not the first act of racial vilification we have received while touring Australia over the years. It is unacceptable. There is absolutely no place for racial stereotyping and such offensive acts in society, let alone in sport.

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“We thank Cricket Australia and the authorities for dealing with the matter in a swift, professional and stern way and for carrying out the full might of the law.”