South African board backs Ntini (January 15 1998)
CENTURION, South Africa, Jan 15 (AFP) - The United Cricket Board have come out in support of Makhaya Ntini but said it would not offer financial support to the Test cricketer who has been charged with rape
30-Nov-1899
January 15 1998
South African board backs Ntini
AFP
CENTURION, South Africa, Jan 15 (AFP) - The United Cricket Board have come
out in support of Makhaya Ntini but said it would not offer financial support
to the Test cricketer who has been charged with rape.
The UCB will make a decision Sunday on Ntini's eligibility for the national
team. Ntini is due to appear in court on March 24 when the team will be on tour
in New Zealand.
"I have discussed this matter with Makhaya on numerous occasions. He has
always remained adamant that he is completely innocent. On that basis, I
support him fully," said Dr Ali Bacher, managing director of the UCB,on Friday.
"We realise that this is now in the hands of the courts and we hope that the
case is disposed of as soon as possible. We will endeavour to assist him
wherever possible.
"On the matter of his eligibility for the national team, this issue will be
discussed by the United Cricket Board of South Africa executive committee at
Centurion Park on Sunday."
Asked about the extent of support, Dr Bacher said it was moral, not
financial.