Western Province Cricket Association chief executive officer Nabiel Dean has confirmed batsman Qaasim Adams has effectively been banned for three first-class and three List A fixtures. Adams reportedly drew a gun on team-mate Givon Christian in early November 2018.
- The incident happened in early November in 2018, but the ban was only implemented two months later after protracted communication and negotiation between the Western Province Cricket Association, Adams’ legal representation and Christian. The South African Cricketers’ Association was also involved.
- A suspension for the rest of the season had been proposed, but 12 playing days – effectively three first-class and three List A fixtures – was the final agreement. Adams will miss matches against KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and North West, but will be eligible for a return against KwaZulu-Natal Inland in late February.
- Christian maintains Adams pointed the gun directly at him, but has decided not to press charges. “Qaasim has a family and, despite the incident, I don’t want to put him in a position that will negatively affect his family. If I did press charges, he would serve jail time. I’m happy to forgive him and move on,” Christian told Club Cricket SA.
- Adams’ absence leaves Western Province without their third-highest run-scorer in first-class cricket this season. The talented middle-order batsman has amassed 236 in three innings, including a superb century against South Western Districts. Only openers Matthew Kleinveldt and Jack Newby have scored more, with 313 and 242 respectively.
- The conditions of the provincial ban allow Adams to play for United Cricket Club. The hard-hitting left-hander is a key member of the WPCA first division A club, who currently occupy ninth position in the 12-team standings. He has been named in the XI for Saturday, 12 January’s fixture against Kraaifontein Cricket Club.