After Chris Gayle episode, Spanish referee caught in sexism row for asking a date during game

New Delhi: After the recent furor over Chris Gayle's controversial TV interview with Channel 10 journalist Mel McLaughlin, a Spanish referee has found himself embroiled in a sexism row for asking a female player on a date during the match.

According to a report in the Mirror, Elena Pavel, who plays for Sporting Huelva in the First Division, complained over sexist treatment from official Santiago Quijada Alcon during the match against Santa Teresa.

Alcon is alleged to have said to Pavel: "Hey brown-hair - let's get coffee this afternoon."

Pavel replied during the game, warning the official - "better stick to blowing your whistle."

The player later told Spanish agency Efe that, the referee was was "provoking" her during the encounter.

“I’ve stopped believing in football, in fair play,” she said.

"I feel helpless, humiliated. In the many years I’ve been playing football I’ve never felt so ashamed."

Earlier this month, West Indies and Melbourne Renegades opener Gayle escaped an immediate suspension after asking McLaughlin for a drink in a Big Bash Bash mid-match interview, He was, however, fined $10,000 and many believed that 36-year-old Jamaican will be banned by Cricket Australia for any future engagements.