While the nation is cricket starved, there is a strong chance that India and South Africa may indulge in a three-match T20I series in late August. However, this is subject to government clearance from both countries.
While the nation is cricket starved, there is a strong chance that India and South Africa may indulge in a three-match T20I series in late August. However, this is subject to government clearance from both countries.
The talks about the series, not officially part of the FTP, was discussed by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and Cricket South Africa’s director of cricket Graeme Smith earlier this year in February and was finalised Wednesday.
The confirmed news was given by Cricket South Africa (CSA) acting chief executive Jacques Faul. He informed the press about the development, but final approval will only be given as August nears.
“India wants to honour its agreement. If it’s postponed, maybe a bit later,” Faul said during a virtual press conference on Thursday according to sport24.co.za. “We’ve had a very good discussion with them(BCCI). We’re seeking via Sascoc an audience with the sports minister to be given approval to, if needed, play behind closed doors. This will relate specifically to the potential of an incoming Indian tour.
“We’re going to be very innovative because it’s an important tour for us. As I’ve stated before, we’re very encouraged by India’s willingness.”
The two nations were a part of a series in India just before the lockdown was imposed. The last time India toured South Africa was in early 2018, where they played three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is.
India’s participation in the series, however, may not be as easy. A BCCI official told PTI: “First, we have to get the players for a conditioning camp in a green zone. Obviously, if things are on track, we would play in South Africa.”
It is believed that India agreed to tour South Africa to arrest the board’s financial slide. Ahead of the 2019-20 season, CSA is said to have estimated losses worth USD 36 million over the next four-year.
“We are working with the West Indies board to try and find a window, post their tour of England, which would shift our dates,” Smith said, as per a report in ESPNCricinfo.
“We are looking at all avenues. It seems to be Trinidad is their favoured venue from a playing and a health perspective. Or to a neutral ground. Or playing in South Africa. It’s a time for members to work closely together and try and find a way to get cricket going and to support each other.”
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 "India may visit South Africa for three T20Is in August: Report")
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