Teeger starts for South Africa U19 after captaincy controversy
David Teeger has been selected in South Africa’s line-up for their World Cup opener against West Indies at the U19 Men’s tournament..
In a hugely controversial decision just before the tournament, CSA confirmed that David Teeger will not captain SA U19 at the U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa. He was relieved of the role for what they described as “safety” reasons following comments he made after he received the Rising Star of the Absa Jewish Achiever Awards.
ALSO READ | Who is David Teeger? Everything you need to know
With Israel currently embroiled in a war against Hamas, which governs the Gaza Strip, CSA subsequently appointed an independent inquiry, which found that Teeger had not breached the CSA or Lions codes of conducts by making pro-Israel comments, but he was still stripped of the captaincy after previously being named as the skipper of the SA U19 World Cup squad.
Juan James will serve as the captaincy replacement, but Teeger was still named to face West Indies U19 in Potchefstroom.
ALSO READ: David Teeger latest: Protest planned for CSA offices
DAVID TEEGER WILL BAT AT NO 3
- Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk)
- Steve Stolk
- David Teeger
- Richard Seletswane
- Oliver Whitehead
- Dewan Marais
- Romashan Pillay
- Juan James (c)
- Riley Norton
- Kwena Maphaka
- Martin Khumalo
ALSO READ: Political pressure denied in Teeger captaincy saga
CSA CONFIDENT OF SAFETY MEASURES
The five host venues, Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein, Kimberley Oval in Kimberley, JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom, Buffalo Park in East London and Willowmoore Park in Benoni – are said to be well prepared to welcome participating teams and spectators.
“The 15th edition of the tournament will be hosted over 24 days with 16 teams competing in 41 matches at the 5 host venues in what promises to be an entertaining festival of cricket,” a statement read.
“We are delighted to host teams and fans from around the world and look forward to showcasing the spirit of cricket in South Africa. Our priority is to ensure that the tournament is a memorable event for all players and fans.
“CSA is fully committed to ensuring the safety of all players and spectators at the various hosting venues. We are taking all the necessary measures to secure these venues and ensure an enjoyable tournament for all involved.
“While CSA respects the right to lawful protests, we emphasise that these cannot interfere with the matches or compromise the safety of players and fans. To this end, we are collaborating closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that the tournament proceeds smoothly and without any disruptions.
“Our focus remains steadfast on delivering a successful and safe World Cup. We appreciate the support and understanding of the cricket community as we work towards another successful global showpiece event on South African soil.”
ALSO READ | Tickets for SA20 playoffs – at Newlands and Wanderers – on sale NOW!