Mark Boucher Relieved That Racism Charges Are Dropped Against Him

Updated - 10 May 2022, 05:36 PM

Mark Boucher[photo:Twitter]

On Tuesday morning, the CSA issued a statement formally withdrawing all disciplinary allegations against Mark Boucher.

It covers allegations related to the Social Justice and Nation Building (SJN) report as well as charges related to the investigation into the resignation of former Proteas assistant coach Enoch Nkwe.

Mark Boucher
Mark Boucher (Image Credit: Twitter)

The Allegations Caused Me Extreme Hurt and Anguish: Mark Boucher

After the media release by Cricket South Africa, Mark Boucher poured his heart out as to how he felt during the whole process.

“The allegations of racism which were levelled against me were unjustified and have caused me considerable hurt and anguish,” Boucher said in his statement.

“The last few months have been extremely difficult to endure for me and my family. I am glad that the process has finally come to an end and that CSA has accepted that the charges against me are unsustainable.

“I consider that the matter is now finalised and closed and I do not intend to make further statements on this matter.”

Boucher’s four-year deal extends through the end of the 2023 ICC World Cup, and he said he is pleased to be leading a Proteas team that is working well together.

Lawson Naidoo, the Chair of the Board of Cricket South Africa, was also sure that the Proteas’ Men’s squad “enjoys a culture of mutual respect and inclusivity,” and that Boucher could now concentrate completely on his work.

“CSA has at all times been committed to dealing with the SJN issues in a manner that treats them with utmost seriousness but also ensures fairness, due process, and finality.

“The decision to withdraw the charges brings about finality on these issues for CSA and Mark and allows the focus to return to the cricket field – where we trust that Mark and the Proteas will go from strength to strength,” Naidoo said.

CSA “regrets” Boucher’s condition for the past year, according to chief executive Pholetsi Moseki.

“CSA appreciates that it has been very difficult for Mark to deal with these charges hanging over his head over the last few months. CSA regrets this.

“CSA is also appreciative of the fact that Mark has at all times conducted himself properly and professionally – refusing to be drawn into public debates about the charges and carrying out his duties with commitment and dedication,” Moseki said.

South Africa has been a dominant force in Test cricket in recent times having beaten India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.

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