'There will be zero tolerance of any racism or homophobia': ICC vow to get tough on sledgers at World Cup World Cup starts on Thursday when England take on South Africa at the Oval Organisers will crack down on poor player behaviour during the tournament The ICC want repeat of successful women’s world tournament two years agoBy Paul Newman for the Daily Mail Published: 22:01 BST, 27 May 2019 | Updated: 22:01 BST, 27 May 2019 Viewcomments World Cup organisers will crack down on poor player behaviour by promising zero tolerance on unacceptable sledging throughout cricket’s showcase tournament. Shannon Gabriel was banned by the ICC during England’s tour of West Indies for homophobic comments towards Joe Root and the governing body’s chief executive Dave Richardson promised to get tough on any World Cup offenders. ‘Any personal or malicious comments won’t be tolerated,’ said Richardson at the Oval on Monday. Shannon Gabriel received a ban for homophobic comments towards England's Joe Root ‘One point we’ve emphasised in all team meetings is to uphold a good standard of behaviour. Over the last 12 months things have improved significantly and in general teams are pretty well behaved.’ Richardson hopes the World Cup, which starts on Thursday when England take on South Africa at the Oval, will provide the same atmosphere as the successful women’s world tournament two years ago that ended in an England victory. ‘The Women’s World Cup is a good example of the family atmosphere we want,’ added Richardson. ‘Everyone is welcome, male and female, young and old. There will be zero tolerance of any racism or homophobia.’ Share or comment on this article: All rights reserved for this news site dailymail and under his responsibility