Cricket South Africa confirms Test series tour to Bangladesh amid security concerns

CSA’s security team, along with officials from the South African Cricketers' Association, conducted an on-site security assessment in Bangladesh

PHOTO: AFP

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has officially confirmed that the Proteas will tour Bangladesh for a two-match Test series in October. The decision follows a comprehensive security review conducted after recent political unrest in Bangladesh, which had raised concerns about player safety.

CSA’s security team, along with key officials from the South African Cricketers' Association and other stakeholders, completed an on-ground security assessment in Bangladesh. Following their evaluation, the CSA announced the green light for the tour. "CSA has given the series a go-ahead on the recommendation made by the team post an in-loco inspection visit to Bangladesh," CSA stated on Monday.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) expressed relief and excitement at the news. Speaking to an Indian news channel, BCB director Nazmul Abedin said, “Naturally, it is relieving that international cricket is returning back to Bangladesh. There was concern about how the world was looking at us, but now it is reassuring that the outside world considers us a safe place to host matches.”

Abedin added that the successful hosting of the series could boost Bangladesh’s reputation as a secure destination for international cricket. “I hope other countries will also feel better about us, and if we conduct it well, the other teams will feel assured about coming here."

Bangladesh has faced political instability recently, with widespread protests leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This unrest initially raised doubts about international cricket returning to the country. However, with the situation under control, CSA's security approval marks a positive step forward.

The Proteas are set to arrive in Dhaka on October 16, ahead of the first Test. The second match will take place in Chattogram from October 29 to November 2.

South Africa squad for Bangladesh Tests: Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, and Kyle Verreynne