'Pinnacle Of The Game' - CSA Provides Explanation On Test Cricket vs SA20 Controversy
Neil Brand will lead the Proteas in New Zealand. (AP)
Amid the mounting criticism directed at Cricket South Africa (CSA) for selecting a relatively inexperienced 14-man Test squad for the forthcoming two-match series, the board has acknowledged the concerns surrounding the composition of the Proteas Test squad touring New Zealand. CSA reiterates its unwavering commitment to Test cricket, considering it the pinnacle of the sport.
The uncapped batter, Neil Brand, has been appointed as the captain for the two-match ICC World Test Championship series, featuring only a few players from the current India tour in the squad.
The decision to opt for an inexperienced ensemble stems from a scheduling clash with SA20, South Africa’s T20 franchise tournament scheduled for January, where the majority of the contracted Test players are expected to participate.
"The Board of Cricket South Africa (CSA) notes the concerns about the composition of the Test squad that will be traveling to New Zealand later this month. We reassure the fans that CSA has the utmost respect for the Test format as the pinnacle of the game we love," CSA's statement read.
Due to the financial implications involved, it became evident that several key white-ball players, some of whom may also serve as first-choice red-ball players for the Proteas, would be unavailable for selection. The SA20 is set to commence on January 10, while South Africa’s tour of New Zealand is scheduled to start on January 19 with the first Test in Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.
When the overlap between the SA20 league and the New Zealand tour became apparent, CSA endeavored to collaborate with New Zealand Cricket to find an alternative date for the two-Test series. However, given the crowded global cricket calendar and the imperative to complete the matches before April 2025 for the World Test Championship, rescheduling proved unfeasible.
CSA expresses confidence in head coach Shukri Conrad and his staff to prepare the selected players for the tour. The board extends its best wishes to the team, viewing this as an opportunity to showcase the depth of cricketing talent in South Africa. Furthermore, CSA assures that future schedules have been managed to prevent clashes between bilateral commitments and the SA20 league, reaffirming its dedication to both international cricket and the success of the SA20 tournament.
The experienced Khaya Zondo, along with pace pair Duanne Olivier and Dane Paterson, as well as spinner Dane Piedt, have been named in the squad to add to their Test caps. This squad will also feature Test batters David Bedingham and Keegan Petersen, currently involved in the ongoing series against India, along with Zubayr Hamza, who has been called up for the New Year’s Test.
Neil Brand, who led South Africa A to a 2-1 series win over West Indies A earlier this month, is one of seven uncapped players in the squad, alongside batter Raynard van Tonder, all-rounders Ruan de Swardt and Mihlali Mpongwana, seam bowler Tshepo Moreki, spinner Shaun von Berg, and wicketkeeper Clyde Fortuin.
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