South African leggie was racially abused at the Wanderers stadium after the home team won the Pink ODI against India. On February 12, a video went viral in which Tahir had a few heated exchanges with fans in the crowd. After the incident, Tahir reported the incident to Cricket South Africa (CSA) who launched an investigation without wasting any time.
Here’s what CSA official had to say about the unfortunate incident –
Imran Tahir was verbally and racially abused by an unknown man. Tahir reported the incident to the stadium security, and was subsequently accompanied by two security personnel to identify and to have the man ejected from the stadium. Tahir made no physical contact with the offender or any of the children in the vicinity. The incident is under investigation with the CSA and stadium security teams.
Tahir thanked his followers for supporting him after the incident by posting a message on Twitter –
Thanking everyone for your support and love really humbled. I am a very simple person who believes in showing love to everyone regardless of country, color or religion.I have played cricket all over the world and have only made friends. Much love.
Thanking every one for your support and love really humbled.Iam a very simple person who believes in showing love to everyone regardless of country , color or religion.I have played cricket all over the world and have only made friends.Much love
— Imran Tahir (@ImranTahirSA) February 12, 2018
Here’s how Twitterati, especially Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans reacted to Tahir’s tweet –
Bro waiting to see you in csk jersey
Big fan of you from Chennai.— Akash Pandian (@AkashPandian7) February 12, 2018
You’ve always been a Great ambassador for the Game Imran 😉 Shallow minded ppl are everywhere.. Let’s ignore them.. Loved the way you handled yourself.. Best wishes for the Upcoming games & IPL Brother
— Sriram (@ImSriram_) February 12, 2018
Welcome to Chennai. You will be amazed by the love and support and the way every fan sees you as part of our family. #SummerIsComing #WhistlePoduArmy #WhistlePodu
— Saravanan Hari (@CricSuperFan) February 12, 2018
Never doubted that for a second brother. Continue doing the good work that you do and may you go from strength to strength.
— Faizel Patel (@FaizelPatel143) February 12, 2018
Have met you only once and i know you are one of the most humble, kind and down to earth cricketer ever. Complete contrast to your passionate wicket celebration.
— freeshead (@jnd583) February 12, 2018
We will make you feel this as 2nd home. We CSK family , Dhoni fans and Tamilians /Indians famous for giving warm welcome and give a home like feel to everyone. Hope you will have a great time here. Nalvaravu (welcome in Tamil)
— Karthik (@Karthik95051378) February 12, 2018
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Hopefully the man will be shown his place. But you my friend is a gem. A class act. Respect from India. Much love.
— AdbhutCharitra (@VishalA60510142) February 13, 2018
Welcome to CSK den Imran. I am sure you will more friends here too.
— Arun. Narayanaswami (@aruun27) February 13, 2018
ALSO READ: Imran Tahir gets into a fight after being racially abused during 4th ODI — WATCH
The leg-spinner has not been in his prime form in the ODI series with just one wicket from three games. He would be looking to make a comeback with a bang if given a chance in fifth ODI. Tahir will be playing for CSK in IPL 2018. He got a bid of Rs 1 crore this time around.
