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R5m for Test-best Proteas

Cape Town - Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Tuesday received a cheque for $475 000 (R5m) in recognition of the Proteas finishing at the top of the ICC Test Team Rankings at the annual April 1 cut-off date.

ICC Chief Executive David Richardson presented the cheque to his CSA counterpart Haroon Lorgat, who received it on behalf of the side that topped the Test rankings for the second successive year.

The Proteas have held the No 1 Test spot since August 2012, and are the fourth side, after Australia, India and England to achieve this distinction.

While South Africa finished on top of the tree at the annual cut-off date, Australia claimed second place and won $370 000 (R3.9m), while India and England received $265 000 (R2.8m) and $160 000 (R1.7m) for finishing third and fourth, respectively.

Richardson praised the Proteas for their achievement.

“I congratulate South Africa for topping the rankings for the second successive year in our pinnacle format. To retain the top Test spot in a season that saw some very interesting, competitive and high-profile series is an achievement to be proud of.

“With the top eight Test sides closely matched, and every side aiming to claim the coveted number-one Test position, I’m looking forward to another exciting, challenging and competitive season, which will go on to strengthen Test cricket’s reputation as the most enduring and respected format.”

South Africa also retained the mace, which is presented to the No 1 ranked Test side.

At the presentation, Lorgat said: “I am truly honoured and humbled to receive the ICC Test prize money, not just on behalf of the players and the team management but on behalf of all South Africans. The players appreciate the enormous privilege of representing our country and taking on the responsibility that goes with it.”

ICC Test Team Rankings table

Under rank, team, points

1. South Africa 127  
2. Australia 115
3. India 112
4. England 107
5. Pakistan 100
6. Sri Lanka 89
7. New Zealand 87
8. West Indies 87
9. Zimbabwe 34
10. Bangladesh 19


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