Jofra Archer: England cricket star subjected to 'racial insults' in New Zealand

25 November 2019, 10:50

England's Jofra Archer runs to field the ball during play on day two of the first cricket test between England and New Zealand. Picture: PA

By Asher McShane

England cricket hero Jofra Archer has told how he suffered racist abuse while batting during the first test against New Zealand.

New Zealand Cricket is to apologise after he was targeted.

Archer scored a second-innings 30 as the England failed to bat out the final day in Mount Maunganui, losing by an innings and 65 runs.

The 24-year-old said on Twitter: "A bit disturbing hearing racial insults today while battling to help save my team.

"The crowd has been amazing this week except for that one guy. The Barmy Army was good as usual also."

Both the ECB and New Zealand cricket were quick to issue responses, with a statement from the host nation coming first.

It read: "New Zealand Cricket will be contacting, and apologising to English fast bowler Jofra Archer, who was racially abused by a spectator as he left the field at the conclusion of the first Test at Bay Oval, Mt Maunganui.

"Although security providers at the venue heard, (they were) unable to locate the perpetrator, NZC will be examining CCTV footage and making further inquiries tomorrow in an endeavour to identify the man responsible.

England's Jofra Archer posted about racial insults on his Twitter. Picture: PA

"NZC has zero tolerance towards abusive or offensive language at any of its venues and will refer any developments in the case to police.

"It will contact Mr Archer tomorrow to apologise for the unacceptable experience, and to promise increased vigilance in the matter when the teams next meet in Hamilton."

The ECB added: "Through the scrutiny of CCTV footage at the Bay Oval, authorities are trying to identify the individual or individuals responsible for the remarks. The investigation is ongoing.

"NZC and ECB ensure that clear guidelines are in place at every venue so that watching a cricket match is safe and enjoyable for everyone.

"Whilst this is a relatively isolated incident there is absolutely no place for anti-social or racist behaviour within the game and it is vitally important that all spectators feel able to come forward to report such behaviour and feel safe in doing so."