Zimbabwe's Utseya lays racism allegations against Campbell

Harare, July 19 - Claiming that he is a victim of racism, off-spinner Prosper Utseya has, in a letter to Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC), levelled a string of allegations against ZC managing director Alistair Campbell.

In the letter addressed to ZC chairman Wilson Manase, Utseya accused Campbell of having a "personal agenda" against him which influenced his non-selection (in the playing XI) at the recent World Cup, a sports website reported.

The 30-year-old spinner alleged that former left-handed batsman Campbell appointed white coaches and administrators during his 2010-2012 stint as chairman of the cricket committee in order to take control.

Utseya confirmed that he had written the letter after the World Cup and prior to Zimbabwe's tour of Pakistan, but could not comment further at this stage. Campbell said he was unable to comment as the matter was pending either legal or internal disciplinary action.

The letter, headlined "Racism and Victimisation", said: "Through you Mr. Chairman, I wish to share my frustrations as I believe I am a victim of racism and have come to a point where I feel I have been quiet for too long whilst a lot has been happening."

Utseya was banned from bowling in September 2014 due to an alleged illegal action. In December, his off-break was found to be illegal but his other deliveries were deemed legal, and so he was cleared to bowl again as long as he did not utilise his stock ball.

(IANS)