India and South Africa can be expected to playa three-match T20I series at the end of August as part of a prior “agreement”, provided the situation to gets better post the coronavirus pandemic for governments on both sides to give a go-ahead. The fixtures are currently earmarked for late August but Cricket South Africa’s acting chief executive Jacques Faul, encouraged by the BCCI’s “willingness”, said both parties are not averse to having the series at a later date.
According to the quotes in sports24.co.za, Faul said, “India wants to honor its agreement. If it’s postponed, maybe a bit later. We’ve had a very good discussion with them (BCCI).”
A BCCI official on condition of anonymity said that the possibility is “there” provided they get an all clearance from the government of India.
ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir reasons ICC’s rule for choosing Sachin over Kohli
Describing the same, the BCCI official said, “First, we have to get the players for a conditioning camp in a green zone. Obviously, if things are on track, we would play in South Africa.”
BCCI agreeing to this bilateral series will also mean that they will have CSA’s support if they want to organize the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) in October-November window instead of the T20 World Cup. Considering the fast-evolving situation, CSA has reiterated that the series will only take place if the board officials get the clearances from the highest authorities of both India and South Africa.
Faul said they have already initiated the process to seek permission from the South African government. He said, “We’re seeking via Sascoc an audience with the sports minister to be given approval to, if needed, play behind closed doors. This will relate specifically to the potential of an incoming Indian tour.”
ALSO READ: Mohammad Kaif doesn’t see KL as India’s long term keeper
He further added, “We’re going to be very innovative because it’s an important tour for us. As I’ve stated before, we’re very encouraged by India’s willingness.”
Cricket, like any other sport, has been impacted by the pandemic with all its engagements postponed.
