Emotions are running high

Within minutes of the conclusion of the series presentation in Antigua, I was in the South African changeroom. I passed on my congratulations to the squad for the comprehensive series win and I needed to speak to Graeme Smith.

During the last 90 minutes of day five of this test, which was played on the most pointless pitch I have seen, I had confirmation of what Graeme allegedly said. What was relayed to me, from a source close to the West Indies team, shocked me.

Quite simply, if Smith had in fact racially abused Dwayne Bravo he was in big trouble. For starters a new South African captain would be needed along with a new opening partner for AB de Villiers.

Immediately I was sceptical. Smith is too smart and too professional to stoop that low. I had to find the skipper and get the information first hand.

I found him slumped in his chair looking totally shattered. Not the emotions of a man who has just been named player of the series. I did not have to ask a question. He was also aware of the allegations.

Upon me approaching him he just blurted out that he definitely did not say it. He admitted giving Bravo a mouthful but strongly denied there was any racial abuse. He was extremely emotional and animated and I breathed a sigh of relief.

At that moment it was clear to me that he was innocent and had become a victim of a misinterpretation. It was still going to be intense for a day or two but I was confident his name would be cleared.

Allegations don’t get more serious than this and emotions are running high. I hope senior players open dialogue to diffuse the situation as something like this left to simmer will no doubt boil over again.