CSA Hosts DEI Indaba to Address Representation in National Cricket Team
Cricket South Africa (CSA) is hosting a three-day Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Indaba to address the lack of representation in the national men’s cricket team. The conference aims to develop a roadmap for ensuring a demographically-reflective team by the 2027 ODI World Cup at home.
CSA has shifted the focus from solely addressing racial representation to a broader approach that encompasses the entire cricketing infrastructure. The conference will examine issues such as the declining participation of players of Indian heritage in Kwa-Zulu Natal and the absence of white players in Limpopo.
The lack of black African representation in the national team has raised concerns, with only one black African player in the T20 World Cup 2024 squad. CSA acknowledges the need to develop the game holistically, especially in areas where talent gaps exist.
The conference will feature a panel discussion with black African batter Khaya Zondo, women’s international bowler Tumi Sekhukhune, and former selector Patrick Moroney. The re-introduction of a selection panel is being considered, as it would provide diverse perspectives and foster broader thinking.
CSA emphasizes that it will not revert to quotas but will set average goals for representation. The national teams are required to field at least six players of color, including two black Africans, on average over a season.
The SA20 franchise league, in which CSA holds a majority share, has no transformation targets. However, CSA hopes that franchise owners will consider South Africa’s history and efforts towards redress.
