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Following Cricket South Africa's (CSA) unwarranted decision to remove David Teeger as Captain of South Africa’s Under-19 Cricket Team, the DA reiterates its demand for his immediate reinstatement. The DA firmly maintains that this action, purportedly taken due to security concerns, is a violation of Teeger's rights and a breach of the principles enshrined in the Constitution's Bill of Rights.

As the first match between South Africa and the West Indies approaches at 10 am tomorrow, the DA emphasises that the legitimacy and integrity of the tournament hinges on Teeger's reinstatement as captain. Failure to do so will compel the DA to follow through on its commitment to submit an official complaint to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).

In addition to laying the complaint with the SAHRC, the DA calls on Cricket South Africa to take the following actions:

1.⁠ ⁠Publicly declare that the U19 Cricket Tournament is safe: CSA must issue a public statement assuring all teams, players, and spectators that the U19 cricket tournament is safe for participation, dispelling any alleged security threats.

2.⁠ ⁠Acknowledge misleading reports: CSA should publicly acknowledge that the decision to remove Teeger as captain was based on misleading information, as revealed by independent analysts and the findings of an inquiry panel established by CSA itself.

3.⁠ ⁠Apologise to David Teeger and South Africa: In the interest of transparency and fairness, CSA should issue an unreserved apology to David Teeger for the unjust treatment he has endured and to the South African public for the international scandal caused by the deceptive actions surrounding his removal.

The DA, having written to the International Cricket Council (ICC), will continue to seek clarification on whether CSA has informed the ICC about these alleged security threats and whether the tournament is deemed safe for hosting. The party reiterates its call for the ICC to investigate any potential political interference by the ANC government in international cricket.

The international community, cricket fans, and players alike are closely watching this situation unfold. The DA urges CSA to act swiftly and responsibly to rectify this unjust situation, upholding the principles of fairness, non-discrimination, and the rule of law.

Issued by Veronica van Dyk MP - DA Shadow Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture