Aaron Phangiso made to apologise for ‘inappropriate’ cocaine gesture on live TV

Aaron Phangiso made to apologise for 'inappropriate' cocaine gesture on live TV

Johannesburg: South Africa left-arm spinner Aaron Phangiso has issued an apology after being filmed imitating snorting line of cocaine during the second Twenty20 international against England on Sunday. The 32-year-old was seen ‘sniffing’ an imaginary substance on his leg and then leaning back in satisfaction while sitting in the dugout with injured opener Quinton de Kock and fast bowler Kagiso Rabada during South Africa’s successful run-chase at the Wanderers.

While apologizing for his actions, Phangiso said that he was sharing a light and humorous moment with his team-mates, but added that it was a silly and irresponsible thing on his part to do, Sport24 reported. Commenting on the incident, Cricket South Africa’s CEO, Haroon Lorgat said: ‘We understand that Aaron was sharing in a light hearted moment with his team-mates, but his action on television was inappropriate in the light of the drug problem that we are challenged with in South Africa. “We have asked team management to highlight the responsibility all players have in being positive and inspirational role models to the youth of this country,” he added.

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Earlier, Phangiso, who last played for South Africa in their One-Day International (ODI) series against India late last year, reportedly created ruckus after consuming alcohol and was barred from flying, while he was returning home after the completion of the series. The incident is reported to have happened on October 26, when Phangiso and some other South African cricketers were flying back home after the completion of the ODI series, which the tourists won 3-2.