The Hindu : Sport / Cricket : Jones to return as commentator

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Wednesday, Sep 27, 2006
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Jones to return as commentator

Dean Jones. — File Photo

SYDNEY: Former Australian Test cricketer Dean Jones will resume his career as a television commentator next year after being sacked for calling a Muslim player a terrorist.

Jones, 45, lost his job with the South Asian network Ten Sports last month when viewers heard him say ``the terrorist's got another wicket'' as South Africa's Hashim Amla took a catch in a test against Sri Lanka.

He later apologised for the remark, saying it was meant as a joke among commentators and was not meant to go on air.

Jones said on Tuesday that two Indian TV networks have employed him and that he'll return to commentating next year. He refused to name the networks but said he will be providing commentary on the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies for Indian audiences.

Jones said he has also signed a two-year deal with Australia's Southern Cross radio network.

Jones said he believed cricket followers, including Muslims, had forgiven him for the terrorist remark.

``It's an unfortunate situation, and I've apologised,'' he said. ``I've spoken to Hashim three times already since and everything's fine.

``There's a few other ugly things in the world to worry about than worry about that.'' — AP

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