Safety of South Africans in the IPL is non-negotiable, SACA insists

The health and safety of South African players competing in the IPL is of paramount importance, according to Andrew Breetzke, CEO of the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA).

Over the past few weeks, SACA — in collaboration with the ICC — has gathered independent security intelligence regarding the on-the-ground situation in India, with a view to safeguarding the eight South Africans currently participating in the tournament. These players include Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder.

Breetzke confirmed that SACA has been in daily contact with the players, providing them with regular updates and offering psychological support throughout this period.

“As a rule, we have independent security advisors, and prior to any tour involving our players, we receive independent security reports covering the region in question. That is standard international practice,” said Breetzke.

“I’ve been in daily contact with our cricketers regarding the security situation, and they have expressed concern. At this stage, all indications suggest the league will resume on Saturday.”

The IPL was suspended in early May following the cancellation of the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, after a security incident involving Pakistan attempting to breach Indian airspace near Chandigarh. The incident led to a stadium blackout and increased safety concerns.

The tournament is set to resume on Saturday, with 17 matches scheduled across six cities — Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad — and the final slated for June 3, the same day the Proteas are to play a warm-up match against Zimbabwe.

The suspension has, therefore, caused scheduling complications for the South African contingent, many of whom are due to return home in preparation for the World Test Championship final against Australia, taking place from June 11.

Breetzke emphasised the importance of players adhering to the originally planned departure window.

“As it stands, the players are expected to return between the 25th and 26th of May in order to begin preparations for the WTC final. I expect this schedule to be honoured, and it must be in the best interest of our game,” he said.

On Thursday, Cricket South Africa's head of national teams, Enoch Nkwe, made a similar commitment in an interview with Independent Media, although concerns remain.