Proteas star Quinton de Kock has apologised for pulling out of Wednesday's (NZ time) Twenty20 World Cup match against the West Indies, after rejecting a Cricket South Africa directive that players must 'take a knee' in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
In a statement released on Thursday, De Kock - who has revealed he has mixed race family - says he meant "no disrespect" and "would love nothing more than to play cricket for my country again".
"I understand the importance of standing against racism, and I also understand the responsibility of us as players to set an example," De Kock said.
"If me taking a knee helps to educate others, and makes the lives of others better, I am more than happy to do so.
"I did not, in any way, mean to disrespect anyone. I'm deeply sorry for all the hurt, confusion and anger that I have caused."
De Kock said his change of heart came after the players had a meeting with the CSA board.
"I was raised to understand that we all have rights, and they are important," he said. "I felt like my rights were taken away when I was told what we had to do in the way that we were told.
"Since our chat with the board, which was very emotional, I think we all have a better understanding of their intentions. I wish this had happened sooner, because what happened on match day could have been avoided."
For the first time, De Kock also revealed he is from a mixed race family.
"My half-sisters are Coloured and my step mum is Black. For me, Black lives have mattered since I was born. Not just because there was an international movement."
The wicketkeeper-batsman hopes to return to the team for their third group game against Sri Lanka.
"I love every one of my teammates, and I love nothing more than playing cricket for South Africa. I just want to thank my teammates for their support, especially my captain, Temba (Bavuma).
"If he and the team, and South Africa, will have me, I would love nothing more than to play cricket for my country again."
Reuters.
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