As South Africa is expecting a discussion with NZ on the dates of the Test Series which is planned for next year, NZC refuses to negotiate dates on SA Test series.
NZC refuses to negotiate dates on SA Test series
South Africa is scheduled to visit New Zealand next year February 2024 is a part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship. New Zealand has declined to negotiate dates of the two-Test series date on next year.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) has dues with the dates and their problem has further increased due to New Zealand Cricket’s (NZC) stance on negotiation.
The governing body of the game in New Zealand has made it clear that it is not willing to change the dates of the series, saying that the dates for the games are set as per the Future Test Programmes. Richard Boock, NZC’s manager of public affairs, revealed that the preparations for the series are well underway.
“These Tests have been part of the FTP since it was announced two years ago,” told Boock. “We’ve collaborated and agreed on dates with CSA, who have confirmed the tour, acknowledged the arrangements, and have been in receipt of the schedule for several weeks.
Flights have been confirmed, dates for the practice game have been agreed, and we’re looking forward to the squad’s arrival. The Proteas are a popular and formidable Test team and we view them as an important part of our home summer schedule,” he added.
New Zealand has already announced a home summer schedule for the 2023-24 season. New Zealand will set to begin their home season on December 17 with the ODI and T20I series against Bangladesh. It will be followed by five T20Is against Pakistan from January 12 to 21.
New Zealand will welcome South Africa for the first Test series of the season. The two-match series will begin on February 4 and the second Test is scheduled to start on February 13. It will be followed by 3 T20Is and two Tests against Trans-Tasman rivals Australia.
New Zealand Cricket is finding it difficult to adjust South Africa’s fixtures to any other time during their home season. According to the press, the situation could force CSA to field a makeshift Test side with a significant proportion of their first-choice players required for the SA20.
The series in New Zealand will be South Africa’s second engagement of the 2023-2025 World Test Championship cycle, during which they will only play two-Test series.
It is understood that there are serious concerns within CSA about the quality of the squad South Africa will be able to send to New Zealand but no suggestion that they will forfeit entirely.
On Wednesday, Cricket South Africa CEO Pholetsi Moseki told the organization was mindful of their bilateral obligations, while also stressing that the SA20 takes first priority.
