South Africa cricketer makes himself unavailable after being told to take the knee

He withdrew from the team for 'personal reasons'

Quinton De Kock made himself unavailable for South Africa's T20 World Cup match against the West Indies on Tuesday for 'personal reasons.' The wicket-keeper and batter made the decision following a directive from Cricket South Africa which told its players to take the knee ahead of the first ball in a united stance against racism. CSA's statement read: "The Cricket South Africa (CSA) Board on Monday evening unanimously agreed to issue a directive requiring all Proteas players to adopt a consistent and united stance against racism by “taking the knee” prior to the start of their remaining World Cup matches. "Concerns were raised that the different postures taken by team members in support of the BLM initiative created an unintended perception of disparity or lack of support for the initiative. "After considering all relevant issues, including the position of the players, the Board felt that it was imperative for the team to be seen taking a united and consistent stand against racism, especially given SA’s history. "Several other teams at the World Cup have adopted a consistent stance against the issue,  and the Board felt it is time for all SA players to do the same. 'Taking the knee' is the global gesture against racism adopted by sportspeople across sporting codes because they recognise the power sport has to bring people together." De Kock has declined to take the knee in past matches, explaining back in June that it is "my own personal opinion ... it’s everyone’s decision. No one is forced to do anything. Not in life. That’s the way I see things. That’s just about it." He was replaced in the South Africa line up by Reeza Hendricks. The West Indies recorded a total of 143 in the first innings and at the time of writing, South Africa have just gone in to bat.