The three-match ODI series between hosts South Africa and the Netherlands starting Friday has been postponed following the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant in the country. The cricket boards of both the teams will now discuss the possibility of rescheduling the series under the ICC Future Tours Program, which ends in 2023.
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Concerns are rising after a new infectious Covid variant emerged, with countries including the United Kingdom, the United States of America and the European Union banning travelers from South Africa. The Netherlands team was concerned as many of its members are part of various county clubs in England.
Cricket South Africa’s acting CEO Foletsi Mosecki expressed disappointment at the turn of events, but said the mental well-being of the players is a top priority.
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“We are disappointed with the unfortunate situation we find ourselves in, but the comfort of all incoming teams should always be of paramount importance. The mental well-being of the players is one of CSA’s top priorities, and we respect the position and perspective of our spectators,” Mosecki said.
“CSA and KNCB will discuss possible rescheduling of the tour within this cycle of the ICC Future Tours Program ending in 2023,” he added.
Netherlands Cricket Board chairman Jurgen Delfoss said: “We are saddened by these circumstances, but are grateful to Cricket South Africa for understanding and helping our team. It should be clarified that the concern is strictly on travel issues and how quickly the team can reach home and it has nothing to do with the integrity of the Bio-secure Environment (BSE) that CSA has successfully hosted. Our team is happy with every aspect of organizing the tour and has been well treated by our hosts.”
“We have been looking forward to this series against the Proteas for some time and look forward to returning to South Africa in the near future,” he added.
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