South African Tony Irish is reportedly in contention to become the chief executive officer of the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) – the players’ union in England and Wales.

Irish is currently CEO of the South African Cricketers’ Association (Saca) and holds a similar role with the Federation of International Cricketers’ Association (Fica).

Irish and Fica, meanwhile, are seeking compensation for players affected by the cancellation of the 2019 edition of the Euro T20 Slam.

The tournament was scheduled to start at the end of this month, but was postponed. Several South Africans, including the Glasgow Giants’ Dale Steyn, Amsterdam Knights’ Imran Tahir and Belfast Titans’ JP Duminy, were due to play in the inaugural competition.

‘Clearly this is a disappointing outcome for the players, fans, administrators and the game across three countries given the expectation raised around the event,’ said Irish.

‘We will continue to work with the Scottish Cricketers’ Association, Irish Cricketers’ Association, players and agents, to support players, and assess any potential recourse open to them.

‘Some players had foregone other opportunities to commit to the league, and we also believe the league has an obligation to players to demonstrate some goodwill given the expectation created, especially if there is a genuine plan to go ahead with the event in the future.’

South African duo Robbie Frylinck and Corbin Bosch were going to play for the Dublin Chiefs. Wicketkeeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen and all-rounder JJ Smuts had been recruited by the Giants.

Wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi and all-rounder Dwaine Pretorious were going to represent the Edinburgh Rocks. Former Proteas Herschelle Gibbs and Lance Klusener were going to coach the Rotterdam Rhinos and Giants, respectively.

‘Cricket regulates players globally in a number of areas and players are subject to numerous onerous global codes and regulations. Many of these play an important role for the sport,’ added Irish.

‘However, the players also play a critical role for the sport globally, and it’s time for enforceable protections to be put in place for players, too.’

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