Did Philander Play On The Basis Of A Quota?

Cricket South Africa chief executive Haroon Lorgat has rubbished reports that he sent Proteas coach Russell Domingo a text message demanding he pick a “player of colour” for the Cricket World Cup semi-final against New Zealand.

It was claimed that Philander was included in the side in order to meet an unofficial quota of black players in the starting XI, with CSA chief executive Haroon Lorgat reported to have told Proteas coach Russell Domingo to drop a white player.

South African sports teams were subject to racial quotas after the end of apartheid, though they were rescinded in 2007. And Lorgat has now hit back at allegations made against him personally.

“This is utter nonsense reporting with false allegations being made,” said Lorgat.

“There was no SMS, WhatsApp or BBM sent by me to the coach, and why would I want to do that when I know the team was confirmed and already announced to the players and team management at their usual 18:00 team meeting that evening?

“Our media policy is not to respond to speculative or false media reports where unnamed sources are quoted, but in this case, due to the damage being caused to the reputation of the Proteas, CSA and individual players soon after a painful exit from the World Cup, I feel it necessary to speak out and make it clear that this report is false.”

“It is very sad to read such poor and false reports which I believe is no more than an attempt to discredit the Proteas and CSA.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all South African fans for their fantastic support of our much loved Proteas team and assure fans that we will do our best to build winning teams.”Lorgat added.