Dean Jones sacked after ‘terrorist’ comment

DURBAN: Former Australian test player Dean Jones was sacked from his job as a commentator on Monday after referring to South African Muslim batsman Hashim Amla as a "terrorist".   

Jones, who admitted making the comment and apologised, was on a TV commentary team covering the second test between Sri Lanka and South Africa in Colombo.   

According to a statement issued by Cricket South Africa on Monday, viewers heard Jones say, "the terrorist has got another wicket" when Amla took the catch that dismissed Kumar Sangakkara.   

Amla is a devout Muslim who wears a beard for religious reasons and has successfully negotiated with the South African team's main sponsors, SA Breweries, not to wear the Castle Lager logo on his playing and practice gear.   

"We take the strongest exception to this comment, and we will lodge an official complaint with the host broadcaster, Ten Sports, that employs him," CSA chief executive Gerald Majola was quoted as saying.   

"We will be asking for his immediate suspension and a full apology."   

The match is being broadcast live in South Africa, which has a significant Muslim community.