South Africa's cricket board has reportedly suspended former skipper Kepler Wessels for alleged racism.

But Wessels, who is currently coach at the Eastern Province team, accused the United Cricket Board (UCB) of launching a witch hunt and said an alleged racist remark attributed to him was false.

He welcomed his suspension, saying it would give him a chance to clear his name.

"I'm very pleased it has come to this," the SAPA quoted Wessels as saying.

"My legal team and I want to get this sorted out as soon as possible."

According to a complaint received by the Eastern Province Cricket Board, Wessels is accused of referring to black cricketers as "animals".

"It's completely untrue," Wessels said.

"It just never happened. The UCB must have some sort of vendetta against me."

The complaint was filed by the predominantly black Gelvandale Cricket Club.

Wessels was accused of telling a seam bowler to "stop talking to the animals and come and warm up," according to an Eastern Province cricket official.

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