Share

CSA denies Smith quit threat

Johannesburg - South Africa's cricket board made the unusual move on Saturday of denying social media comments that captain Graeme Smith threatened to quit if black wicketkeeper Thami Tsolekile was picked for the Test series against India.

Cricket South Africa said it "would like to quash rumors and comments floating around" that Smith had given selectors an ultimatum before the first test. CSA chief executive Haroon Lorgat added "there is no truth at all to these malicious and damaging comments."

Tsolekile, who was not chosen to play in the first test, has become relevant to South Africa's struggle to include more black players in national teams after he was overlooked on the tour to England last year when Mark Boucher was injured despite being the backup wicketkeeper.

A report on transformation in South African sport is due next month, with cricket and rugby both admitting there aren't enough black players at the top level.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1272 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE