CSA CEO Discusses Complexity of Afghanistan Cricket Situation

Pholetsi Moseki, the CEO of Cricket South Africa (CSA), elaborated on the organisation's choice to send the Proteas to Sharjah for a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. While Cricket Australia has opted to avoid playing Afghanistan outside of ICC events due to the Taliban's restrictions on women participating in sports, CSA has chosen a different course of action.

"It’s a very complex issue, which is why we have decided to align with the majority of ICC members in expressing solidarity with Afghanistan, its players, and the cricket board," Moseki shared with News24. "The topic of Afghanistan is a recurring discussion at every ICC meeting and is expected to resurface in next month’s gathering. It is a concern for all of us, but we recognize that penalising the Afghanistan Cricket Board and its players may not be the most constructive approach."

He added, "We question if it is just to punish Afghanistan Cricket, especially when they had already offered 25 women's contracts prior to the return of Taliban rule."

On the subject of Cricket Australia’s stance, Moseki noted, "I believe Australia took that position based on directives from their government. If our government were to advise against playing Afghanistan — which I do not anticipate — we would likely respond differently. However, that would be disappointing, as I firmly believe the ICC is attempting to navigate this situation without imposing penalties on the Afghanistan Cricket Board, which has successfully developed female players who have sought refuge worldwide from the Taliban."

"This situation is more intricate than many people realise."

Upcoming ODI Series: Afghanistan vs. Proteas

- 1st ODI: September 18, Sharjah

- 2nd ODI: September 20, Sharjah

- 3rd ODI: September 22, Sharjah