Cricket South Africa (CSA) is facing a crucial decision regarding the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, scheduled to commence on October 21. The decision hinges on security assessments currently underway, following concerns raised after anti-government protests in Bangladesh earlier this year.
CSA, in collaboration with the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA), will make a final call by the end of this week. The Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, initially slated for Bangladesh, was relocated due to the unrest.
Sources within CSA indicate that the situation in Bangladesh has improved, but the organization emphasizes that player safety remains paramount. A collective decision will be made, with individual players unlikely to have the final say on whether to tour.
South Africa’s Test schedule has been condensed to two-match series in this World Test Championship cycle, prioritizing the launch of the SA20 domestic T20 league and cost-cutting measures. The team has played six Tests so far, winning two, losing three, and drawing one.
To qualify for the WTC final at Lord’s next year, South Africa needs to win at least five of their remaining six matches. If they tour Bangladesh, they are unlikely to field Marco Jansen or Gerald Coetzee, who are expected to return to action in November.
South Africa’s next assignment is a white-ball series against Afghanistan and Ireland in the UAE, where several new faces are expected to feature.
