The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) has cleared the air regarding the perceived takeover of Cricket South Africa (CSA).
The committee informed CSA earlier in the week that it had suspended the latter’s board, placing it under administration for a month.
Sascoc clarifies cricket ‘takeover’
The move prompted concern over the International Cricket Council (ICC) taking action against CSA.
The sports governing body has a strict policy against interfering with cricket in its member nations.
However, Sascoc has – in a letter sent to the ICC – denied that its intervention is akin to government interference.
“At no stage did Sascoc act under the direction of the Minister of Sport. Sascoc rejects any allegation that the intervention constitutes government interference. In this regard, we are quite prepared to meet with you and discuss this issue to give you the assurance that the Sascoc intervention is a bona fide attempt to assist one of its members who clearly and desperately needs such assistance.
“CSA’s steadfast refusal to make the forensic report available is puzzling, as it appears that they are unable to self-correct if the report is not made available, not only to its own members but also to the media and public at large since it is a public document. CSA (like Sascoc) remains accountable to the public at large since we are public bodies … and are required to act in the public interest.”
South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee
CSA’s next move
The move by Sascoc was not met with the greatest of welcome by CSA, who issued out a statement soon after the suspension of its board was made public.
CSA says it is seeking legal advice on the matter.
“CSA, including its Members’ Council, does not agree with the resolution taken by SASCOC and has not had the opportunity to engage with SASCOC on various issues raised in the communication.
“In addition, CSA is taking legal advice regarding the basis on which SASCOC has sought to intervene in the business affairs of CSA. CSA does, however, commit to engaging further with SASCOC to understand its position and to find common ground with it in the best interests of cricket.”
Cricket South Africa
