The Minister of Sport and Recreation, Mr Fikile Mbalula, MP, would like to congratulate the Protea Team selectors for assembling a strong team, with a combination of experience, youthful exuberance and flare to represent and fly the South African flag in the Asian sub-continent at the International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup commencing in February to March 2011.
"The team as assembled by Cricket SA, it is a reflection of the present status quo in cricket. We have stated that our approach this year is to ensure that school sport becomes central in producing national talent that will bring joy and pride to the country" said Minister Mbalula.
"We are, since President Zuma deployed us to lead the Ministry of Sport and Recreation, on record that the quota system is both undesirable and a blunt tool that we believe will not bring about meaningful development and transformation in sport as envisaged. Hence our message to all federations is to do away with quota systems and focus on increasing participation and creating access to all especially the disadvantaged so as to create a pool of talent from which we can select a non-racial and inclusive team."
Minister Mbalula further stated that the team does not need any negativity in their quest for World glory. As part of preparations for the team to perform well in India, the minister approved the inclusion of Pakistani-born Imran Tahir to be in the Protea team to enhance our ability in the spin-bowling department which as a country we have been lacking. Tahir’s inclusion in the national team should serve as both inspiration and constant reminder to Cricket South Africa to fasten the pace of development and transformation of in cricket especially talent identification in schools and communities.
The minister is also looking forward to the 1 February designated platform for the send-off for the Graeme Smith and the boys and utilise it as a plan to rally the whole nation behind the team.
For comments please contact:
Paena Galane
Cell: 079 509 9833
Tel: 012 304 5255
Source: Sports and Recreation South Africa
