Cricket SA (CSA) confirmed on Wednesday the Proteas did not receive death threats on their return from the Cricket World Cup.
Proteas captain Graeme Smith clarified comments he made earlier in an interview with Cape-based radio station KFM about the Proteas’ reception when they landed at OR Tambo Airport on April 28.
”I hope these remarks were not misconstrued,” said Smith.
”I was referring to the reception India got when they returned home from the tournament and reports of incidences of violence that occurred in that country.
”CSA had received calls and emails from upset fans about the Proteas performance at the 2007 Cricket World Cup.
”You can imagine how we felt coming back home. It was a disappointing period for all of us and our fans. Right now we can only work on improving on the lessons and challenges learnt from our experience.
”We would like to thank all our fans for supporting us throughout the season, which was one of the most successful yet in the Proteas history.”
CSA media spokesperson Gordon Templeton confirmed that CSA had received calls and emails from disappointed fans, but said there had been no death threats.
”Although some fans expressed their anger and disappointment, many fans welcomed the Proteas home, and expressed their support for the players,” said Templeton. — Sapa