(The Post News)– Transformation in South African cricket has been a hot topic this week, particularly after the EP Warriors were penalised log points for not meeting player of colour requirements in a recent One-Day Cup match against the KZN Dolphins. The team fielded only two Black African players instead of the required three, costing them a place in the playoffs.
Eastern Province Cricket president Donovan May justified the selection by stating that the conditions in Durban necessitated an additional spinner, and they did not have a Black African spinner available.
The Proteas, however, are not bound by strict quotas for every match but must achieve transformation targets across the season. In their recent Champions Trophy semi-final against New Zealand, they fielded four players of colour, including three Black Africans.
Following Wednesday’s budget speech in Cape Town, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie expressed his frustration, stating that CSA’s actions were pushing the limits of government patience. He emphasised that it was unacceptable to have only one Black player representing the country at a major event like the World Cup, calling it disrespectful.
McKenzie further noted that he supports merit-based selection but questioned why there is often an assumption that the best players are white. He argued that talent exists across all racial groups and that the current situation sends a damaging message about the abilities of Black players. He warned that Cricket South Africa is heading towards serious consequences if the situation does not improve.
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