• Brexit brings ‘sensitive issues’ for Kolpaks

    Britain’s decision to leave the European Union has left the future of several cricketers on Kolpak contracts uncertain.

    Currently, international cricketers who have signed Kolpak contracts in the United Kingdom are not allowed to compete in Test, ODI or T20I competition.

    South Africa have a long line of Kolpak cricketers, including fast bowlers Duanne Olivier and Kyle Abbott, spinner Simon Harmer, batsmen Rilee Rossouw and Colin Ingram, wicketkeeper Dane Vilas and more.

    KP: Let Kolpaks play for Proteas

    The veteran Hashim Amla, Morne Morkel and Vernon Philander signed Kolpak contracts after retiring from international cricket.

    Those with British passports or who ‘have settled or pre-settled status’ will be allowed to remain as local players.

    The Professional Cricketers’ Association, meanwhile, has supported the England and Wales Cricket Board’s recommendation to allow two overseas players per XI in the County Championship, One-Day Cup and T20 Blast.

    ‘We are very aware of the sensitive issues that Brexit has been causing a number of PCA members for over three years,’ said PCA chairman Daryl Mitchell.

    ‘A number of Kolpak-registered players have committed to a career in England beyond 2020 and their needs as PCA members are very important to us.

    ‘Our view is increasing overseas players to two per county in the County Championship and One-Day Cup would be a positive outcome.’

    Photo: Gallo Images

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    SA CRICKET