Just Taking Crowds Out Of The Stadium Is Not The Solution For Racial Abuse: Gautam Gambhir

Former India batsman Gautam Gambhir has called for stricter measures to wipe out racism from the game in the wake of the abuse faced by Mohammed Siraj during the ongoing Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Siraj faced the unpleasant scenes on Saturday as well as Sunday while fielding near the boundary. Senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah was also abused by a section of fans on Saturday.

On Sunday, police had to be called after Siraj complained about the abuse from the spectators. The police were quick to take action and asked the spectators to leave the stadium immediately. However, Gautam Gambbir believes sending the guilty individuals out of the stadium is not enough while stressing that enforcing strict laws is the “permanent solution” against the racial abuse in cricket.

“Just taking crowds out of the stadium is not the solution. It happened in past and it may happen in the future till the time you don’t have any permanent solution and strict action. Strict law is required and there should be a punishment for the same,” he added.

Sean Carroll, Cricket Australia’s Head of Integrity and Security, on Sunday said that strict action will be taken against the section of fans who hurled racial slurs at Indian pacers Mohammad Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah.

“Cricket Australia condemns in the strongest terms possible all discriminatory behaviour. If you engage in racist abuse, you are not welcome in Australian cricket,” said Carroll.

“CA is awaiting the outcome of the International Cricket Council’s investigation into the matter reported at the SCG on Saturday. Once those responsible are identified, CA will take the strongest measures possible under our Anti-Harassment Code, including lengthy bans, further sanctions and referral to NSW Police. As series hosts, we unreservedly apologise to our friends in the Indian cricket team and assure them we will prosecute the matter to its fullest extent,” he added.

Talking about the game, India ended day two on 98 for 2 while chasing an improbable total of 407. The four-match series is currently level at 101.

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