Dylan Bettencourt
While the governing bodies of both cricket and rugby rejoiced in South Africa over the return of fans into stadiums, football fans still have not been told when they will be able to watch their teams play again.
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Tuesday night that stadiums are now permitted to hold 50% of their capacities, given fans attending are vaccinated or provide a negative Covid-19 test.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) swiftly announced that they were thrilled with the decision and even during Wednesday’s third ODI against Bangladesh, allowed more fans into the ground.
“CSA is thrilled to receive this news, which greets us at the time when our domestic cricket is in full swing and while Bangladesh is currently on an inbound ODI and Test series tour,” CSA CEO Pholetsi Moseki said.
The South African Rugby Union followed suit, saying that they will make arrangements for fans to get back into stadiums as soon as possible.
“These have been two incredibly tough years for our teams, and we are excited to welcome more people back into stadiums for all levels of the game, from the United Rugby Championship, and Currie Cup, to club level,” SA Rugby president Mark Alexander said.
While cricket and rugby rush to allow fans back where they belong, football’s authorities were not as jubilant with the announcement.
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) said its executive committee would meet early next week to discuss the announcement made by President Ramaphosa.
“The Executive Committee of the League is meeting on Monday 28 March 2022 to consider the extent to which the League Covid-19 Regulations can or should be adapted. The existing protocols remain in place until varied by the Executive Committee,” the PSL said.
Fans of sport in South Africa have been barred from stadiums for two years while the rest of the country has been allowed to slowly return to normal.
Now fans of cricket and rugby will rightfully rejoice. When will fans of football – the country’s most popular sport – get to do the same?
Image source: @Kickoff
