Batsman banned

FORMER Werneth CC professional batsman Mark Vermeulen has been banned from all cricket activities for referring to black people as “apes”.

The 36 year old, who played nine Tests and 43 one-day internationals for Zimbabwe, made his views in a Facebook post in July.

A Zimbabwean newspaper has since published an apology from Vermeulen in which he said: “I know my comments were over the top and I apologise to all that I have offended. But as a cricketer, it’s how our minds work,” he said.

Zimbabwe Cricket said: “Mark Vermeulen has been banned from participating in all cricket activities, after he owned up to repulsive remarks that reflect racism, prejudice and plain ignorance.”