Rob Walter, the selector for the Proteas One-Day squads has blamed provincial union presidents for the lack of black players in the team.
Walter claimed the unions are not doing enough to develop black players.
Only two black African players were selected for the upcoming T20 World Cup with Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi as a travelling reserve.
Walter said provincial unions need to increase efforts in developing talent that can compete on the international stage, especially as South Africa prepares to host the 2027 World Cup.
The slow progress in bringing in more black African players into the national team has resulted in criticism of the Members’ Council, Cricket South Africa’s highest decision-making body, which is influenced by provincial union presidents.
Despite major investments in development programmes post-apartheid, the results in terms of diversifying the national team have been poor.
Walter’s finger-pointing has also been criticised as no organisation seems to be taking responsibility for the issue.
The provincial system’s failure to produce a pipeline of black African talent ready for international cricket points to a much bigger problem.
As South Africa moves towards the 2027 World Cup, the cricketing community may feel there will still be a lack of diversity when the tournament takes place.
Compiled by staff writer
Pictured above: Proteas test captain Temba Bavuma with Kagiso Rabada.
Image source: Kagiso Rabada/X
