Sale star highlights death threats against teammates

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Sale Sharks and England wing Marland Yarde has said his teammates have received death threats in relation to reactions to the Black Lives Matter movement.

Since the resumption of the English Premiership, various teams have demonstrated different interpretations of the ‘Rugby Against Racism’ campaign.

For example, the Sale Sharks players have all worn ‘Rugby Against Racism’ T-shirts, but not all have opted to kneel prior to kick-off. This action has become a powerful symbol related to the Black Lives Matter movement.

Without any stipulation from England’s RFU as to how teams must respond, it has led to a variety of responses, with some teams standing in circles.

WATCH: Politicians should stay out of sport – Sale boss

In South Africa, reports around some South African players remaining standing last week drew a response from sports minister Nathi Mthethwa, who has asked SA Rugby president Mark Alexander to provide clarity in regard to the players’ decision.

However, the DA, AfriForum and Solidarity subsequently hit back at Mthethwa, while Sale Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond said players should be allowed to demonstrate free choice.

Taking to social media, Yarde has now highlighted just how serious and inflammatory the matter has become.

ALSO READ: Mthethwa won’t ‘jump the gun’ over players not kneeling

ALSO READ: Appreciate ‘personal choice’ when it comes to taking a knee

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Craig Lewis