The South African Cricketers’ Association is committed to supporting and assisting players during the Covid-19 pandemic which has had a direct impact on cricket throughout the world.

Saca CEO Andrew Breetzke said in a statement: ‘The health and safety of players is not negotiable, and SACA has therefore been supportive of Cricket South Africa’s decisions to withdraw the Proteas Men from India, and suspend cricket for a period of 60 days.  The spread of the pandemic over the past week, and the subsequent implementation of stringent measures by National Government, has shown that these were prudent decisions.  As a member of CSA’s Covid-19 Steering Committee, SACA will continue to work with CSA in managing this crisis

‘We are fortunate in that the crisis has commenced at the end of our season, and the disruption has therefore been minimal.  However, the English Cricket Board has announced that the English season will be suspended until the end of May at the earliest.  This decision will have a direct impact on a number of South African players who have County or Club contracts in the United Kingdom.  SACA, in engaging with the Professional Cricketers Association and FICA, will provide guidance and support to these players.

‘SACA will continue to liaise with players during the national shutdown, monitor their well-being through our regional PDMs and provide support through our medical specialists where necessary.

‘National Government has implemented unprecedented measures to curb the spread of Covid-19. As role models, we are urging our players to lead by example during this difficult period.  We all have a role to play in overcoming this crisis’ added Omphile Ramela, Saca president.

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