Cape Town - Proteas spinner Aaron Phangiso has apologised after being caught imitating snorting cocaine during a live TV broadcast of last Sunday’s T20 international against England.
Phangiso was seen performing the impression while sitting in the dugout during South Africa’s successful run-chase at the Wanderers.
Phangiso was quick to apologise for his actions.
"I was sharing a light and humorous moment with my team-mates, but in hindsight I realise it was a silly and irresponsible thing to do. I would like to apologise for my actions and to all those who I may have offended," Phangiso said as the incident quickly hit the headlines in Britain's Daily Mail.
Phangiso was filmed alongside injured opener Quinton de Kock and fast bowler Kagiso Rabada while South Africa were batting.
Phangiso, 32, was seen ‘sniffing’ an imaginary substance on his leg and then leaning back in satisfaction.
Cricket South Africa's CEO, Haroon Lorgat, commented on the incident:
“We understand that Aaron was sharing in a light-hearted moment with his team-mates, but his action on television was inappropriate in the light of the drug problem that we are challenged with in South Africa.
“We have asked team management to highlight the responsibility all players have in being positive and inspirational role models to the youth of this country.”
Phangiso, who was awarded a Proteas contract last month, made headlines when it was revealed he was barred from a team flight in an intoxicated state last October.
(Picture: SkySports)@LifeisSavage whoops! pic.twitter.com/zGENeLrAUP
— Dean Hastie (@D_Hastie) February 22, 2016