/ 18 February 2003

UCB declines action against staggering Sonn

The United Cricket Board of South Africa (UCB) will not be taking any further action against its president, Percy Sonn.

Sonn shocked people with his crude language and offensive behaviour during the match between Holland and India in Paarl on February 12.

According to a report in the Afrikaans daily, Beeld, veteran racing driver Sarel van der Merwe had witnessed how Sonn ”literally fell out of his pants” and staggered about among the Boland Park private suites.

The general council considered the allegations made, together with a written report from the chief executive of the Boland Cricket Board, Pietie Williams. Taking this into account, as well as the unconditional public apology voluntarily tendered by Sonn and his assurance that this conduct will not be repeated, the council endorsed and accepted that unconditional apology. They emphasised, however, that the UCB’s code of conduct is applicable to all its officials.

The council unanimously acknowledged the contribution Sonn had made over the past 30 years to cricket in South Africa as well as the positive role he continues to play in world cricket.

”The UCB, its President and all its directors wish to continue to focus their attention on making the ICC Cricket World Cup 2003 a success,” said chief executive officer Gerald Majola. – Sapa