The revenue generated from the vibrant and colourful travelling party is not only a boost for cricket’s coffers, but a significant fillip for the economy of South Africa as a whole
Cricket South Africa really are their own worst enemy at the moment.
As if their detractors don’t have enough ammunition – the High Court case with the SA Cricketers’ Association, major affiliates filing lawsuits against the mother body, and the suspension of three senior officials – for target practice, CSA continue to find a way to shoot themselves in the foot too.
There’s just 20 days before the most sought-after visiting team – besides India of course – in the world kick off their tour of South Africa with a warm-up match in Benoni.
England in South Africa is the cash-cow of all incoming tours.
The revenue generated from the vibrant and colourful travelling party is not only a boost for cricket’s coffers, but a significant fillip for the economy of South Africa as a whole.
And yet CSA are finding every possible way to paint the sport in a damning light at the moment ahead of their biggest summer. There are currently no selectors to choose the Proteas team to face the visitors, while the interim Director of Cricket Corrie van Zyl is on a suspension list.
So, it was understandable that everyone concerned with the state of the game in Mzansi was relieved to hear that chief executive Thabang Moroe indicated on a national radio show last week there will be communication surrounding the appointment of the Director of Cricket imminently.
But here’s the snag
That announcement was meant to be last Friday.
Even worse, there has not been a word on the matter since.
The appointment of a Director of Cricket is fast turning into a public-relations disaster for CSA. Instead of being hailed as the beginning of a new era for the Proteas after a disastrous World Cup and equally horrible tour of India, the delay has only caused greater confusion and disillusionment.
Former Proteas captain Graeme Smith was being hailed as the messiah that would come in on his white horse and save South African cricket.
But even the broad-shouldered “Biff” could not see the race out, withdrawing his application before the process had even been completed.
That left Hussein Manack, Dave Nosworthy and Van Zyl – even though he is still under suspension – competing for the Director of Cricket post. The inside lane seemed to belong to Manack, but the delay has opened up the debate again.
If CSA really are working on a high-profile overseas recruitment – former England coach Andy Flower’s name has been whispered in the corridors of uncertainty – then it could be something to look forward to.
But unfortunately due to the lack of communication and empty promises previously, all that remains is for the public that dearly wants the pride of the Proteas restored to wonder when the next calamity will hit Cricket South Africa.
