The South African Cricketers’ Association yesterday accused Cricket South Africa of causing a “crisis” by instructing players to accept its directive.

Andrew Breetzke, the chief executive of the association, advocated a “uniform approach” to taking a knee, but said making it mandatory hours before the West Indies caused a “crisis” in the side.

As De Kock and the board consider their next moves, the predicament continued to attract fierce debate. Former Cricket Australia and International Cricket Council chief Malcolm Speed said Cricket South Africa’s mandate was a “step too far” as it emerged at least one club from the Australian Big Bash League had signalled its interest in signing De Kock.

Adam Gilchrist, the former Australia Test wicketkeeper, said: “It seems Quinton de Kock is very active in being pro-Black Lives Matter, and supporting people of colour within that country. I think the gesture, if it’s going to help people move forward and heal, and create a stronger future, is probably worth doing.

Loading

“For Quinton, it’s about being told he has to do something when he doesn’t necessarily feel he needs to do it, that it’s become a bit tokenistic.”

Former England fast bowler Angus Fraser, now managing director of Middlesex, said that the situation was complex.

“It’s a difficult one. Because of apartheid people assume it’s racially motivated. I think it’s very difficult to impose that on an individual,” Fraser said.

But other players criticised De Kock’s actions.

Isa Guha, the former England fast bowler, who is now a leading commentator, said: “Are you against racism? Is there a collective way of showing this? The teams should be unified in this approach. If you are defiant in your actions then there need to be repercussions.”

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt, who was jailed following a spot-fixing scandal, said: “His decision will not unite people but will only create a further divide. I really don’t know why he did this.”

Telegraph, London

Sports news, results and expert commentary. Sign up for our Sport newsletter.