Marcus Stoinis’ homophobic slur unacceptable but Melbourne Stars won’t stop the on-field banter
Melbourne Stars batsman Marcus Stoinis could have been suspended for the homophobic slur which has left two players distraught. But it won’t be the end of on-field banter.
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Melbourne Stars coach David Hussey will continue to encourage his players to be verbal on the field but conceded a homophobic slur from batsman Marcus Stoinis had crossed the line.
Stoinis could have been suspended after breaching the Cricket Australia code of conduct but was instead fined $7500 fine for allegedly calling Renegades fast bowler Kane Richardson a “faggot” during last Saturday’s BBL clash at the MCG.
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Richardson is believed to still be feeling the effects of the sledge ahead of Tuesday night’s clash with the Perth Scorchers and is reluctant to talk about it.
Hussey said he was a supporter of on-field banter but scaled back earlier comments that it was a situation of “two alpha-males” going a little bit too far.
Stoinis, Australia’s one-day player of the year last year, is also believed to still be distraught at his actions which Hussey said didn’t represent the values of his team.
“While banter is common on the field, that is not an excuse for offensive or derogatory comments or behaviour that clearly cross the line,” Hussey said on Monday night.
“We encourage our players to be competitive but above all fair and Marcus has accepted the consequences of his actions on Saturday night.
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“Both from a personal perspective and what the Stars represent overall, we are committed to supporting an inclusive environment where everyone in the community is treated with equality and respect.”
Stoinis was fined for personal abuse of a player when he used the slug against Richardson, a former Australian one-day teammate, during the Stars’ romp to victory.
The penalties for such a breach of the Cricket Australia code of conduct, which was deemed a level two offence, allowed for a fine of up to $10,000 and/or two suspension points.
But match referee Daryl Harper opted for the fine and Cricket Australia’s Head of Integrity, Sean Carroll said it was the “appropriate course of action”.
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Hussey said Stoinis remained “really apologetic” having expressed that sentiment to Richardson in the aftermath of the game.
The pair won’t face each other in Friday’s return clash with Richardson off to India with the Australian one-day team. Stoinis didn’t make the squad.
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