Hashim Amla condemns Mumbai terror attacks

Melbourne:

Himself once referred to as "terrorist" by a commentator, South African batsman Hashim Amla condemned acts of terrorism, such as the recent Mumbai attacks, in no uncertain terms.

"I'm not involved in politics but if you look at Islam, the way I have been taught and the way I have learnt Islam it gives me a lot of stability and discipline. If a Muslim is doing something like that (terror attacks) it is certainly condemned in Islam," said Amla, who was once called a "terrorist" by Dean Jones in an off-air comment during a Test in Colombo two years ago.

"As a person playing cricket, I don't think people have to separate religion and sport," he was quoted as saying by 'The Australian'.

The bearded batsman has been sometimes describes as Asian but 25-year old Amla does not give much thought on such things.

"People may see you as an Indian, or a Muslim, or whatever the case is, but I don't put that in my mind."

Asked about his team-mates having a beer sponsor blazed across their clothing, which he does not have, Amla said, "It is nothing new. Since I made my debut in 2004 it was an issue then but fortunately South Africa is a country that is very understanding."

"We do come from a difficult past with racial prejudices. So our country is very much accepting to differences. I put in the request to the United Cricket Board at the time. They accepted and the sponsors were very accommodating as well. For me the issue is dead and buried with the team and the South African people."