Cricket South Africa (CSA) addressed concerns on Tuesday regarding the decision to send a below-strength team to New Zealand, citing an inability to find alternative dates for the series. The organization assured fans of its respect for the Test format, emphasizing the logistical challenges faced in scheduling.
The 14-man squad for the two Test matches in March comprises only seven capped players, with CSA prioritizing the SA20 T20 franchise competition. Former Australian captain Steve Waugh criticized the selection, stating it showed a lack of respect for New Zealand cricket.
CSA acknowledged that the dates for the New Zealand tour were agreed upon before finalizing the SA20 schedule. Efforts were made to find a mutually suitable time slot for the Test series, but global cricket calendar constraints made this impossible.
The statement highlighted that no further clashes between South Africa’s bilateral commitments and the SA20 were anticipated during the current World Test Championship cycle. CSA commended Test coach Shukri Conrad for preparing the selected players and expressed confidence in their ability to represent the Proteas badge with honor.
The organization wished the squad the very best, viewing the tour as an opportunity to showcase the depth of talent in South Africa. CSA assured that the schedule for the remainder of the Future Tours Programme had been managed to avoid any further clashes between bilateral commitments and the SA20.
By AFP
