Cricket South Africa (CSA) became the latest apex body to take a step towards pay parity in International cricket. They announced equal pay for both their Men’s and Women’s teams in International cricket. The cricketers will get the same match fees for International matches, while the women’s domestic leagues will also be professional.
The New Zealand and Indian cricket boards previously initiated pay parity in International cricket. Cricket South Africa joined the list with their landmark announcement. The South African women’s team has had a great run in recent times. They reached the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in New Zealand in 2022 and also reached the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final this year.
The changes will be implemented from South Africa’s limited-overs International series against Pakistan in Karachi. The tour begins on September 1. Meanwhile, the professional league will feature the top division of six of the 16 current women’s provincial teams. The teams – the Lions, the Titans, Western Province, the Dolphins, Free State and the Garden Route Badgers – will be able to contract 11 players each, up from the current six.
About yesterday…🏏
✅ Permanent contracts increased from 6 to 11 players per team
✅ Permanent coaching setup
✅ Centralized physiotherapists and S&C coaches
✅ Combined prize pot for tournament winners#CSAWomensLeague #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/MMgdqzUHsn— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) August 23, 2023
The initiative paves the way for an even brighter future: Pholetsi Moseki, Cricket South Africa CEO
The Cricket South Africa CEO Pholetsi Moseki expressed that the changes are an important step towards building a legacy and helping women’s cricket grow in the country. He also added that it will inspire the next generation of players in South Africa. Pholetsi Moseki said,
“We are thrilled to unveil the Professional Women’s Cricket League, an initiative that celebrates the remarkable achievements of our national women’s cricket team and paves the way for an even brighter future. The professionalisation of the women’s domestic structure aims to elevate the women’s cricketing landscape by providing a platform for local talent to shine, fostering a culture of sporting excellence, while inspiring the next generation of players.”
“With the success of South African cricket on the global stage, we believe that this will be a stepping stone for local talent, creating an environment that fosters growth, resilience, and a deep love for the sport. Professionalising the women’s domestic structure has been met with enthusiasm from fans, players, and sponsors alike. We call on brands to continue showing their support for women’s cricket, recognising the league’s potential to redefine the narrative around women in sports in the country.” he added.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
