Cricket South Africa has announced that going forward it will pay equal international match fees to their men’s and women’s national players.
It’s a massive boost for women’s cricket in the country.
The landmark announcement came on the same day that CSA unveiled a six-team professional domestic league for women, as part of the legacy projects following the 2023 Women’sT20 World Cup, which South Africa hosted and went on to finish runners-up at.
The league comprises two main tournaments – the CSA Women’s One Day Cup and CSA Women’s T20 Challenge.
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The women’s structure is set to undergo significant changes too. The number of permanent contracts in the Top Six Division 1 will be raised from six to 11 players per team. Additionally, there will be an improved and permanent coaching set-up consisting of a head coach and an assistant coach and a centralised system for physiotherapists and strength and conditioning coaches attending to each team.
To further boost motivation among players and competing teams in the first division, which includes the 2022/23 T20 and 50-over champions the Lions and Western Province, along with the Titans, Dolphins, Garden Route Badgers, and newcomers Free State, CSA has introduced a combined prize money pot for the respective winners of the upcoming campaign.
“The professionalisation of the women’s domestic structure aims to elevate the women’s cricketing landscape by providing a platform for local talent to shine, fostering a culture of sporting excellence while inspiring the next generation of players,” said CSA chief executive officer Pholetsi Moseki. “With the success of South African cricket on the global stage, we believe that this will be a stepping stone for local talent, creating an environment that fosters growth, resilience, and a deep love for the sport. Professionalising the women’s domestic structure has been met with enthusiasm from fans, players, and sponsors alike. We call on brands to continue showing their support for women’s cricket, recognising the league’s potential to redefine the narrative around women in sports in the country.”