Newlands has been confirmed as the venue for South Africa and England’s Test early next year, despite safety concerns amid ongoing construction.
Cricket South Africa were concerned about the Western Province Cricket Association’s administration and finances – and the potential disruption caused by the construction of new office blocks at Newlands.
But CSA and the WPCA have since confirmed the series’ second Test, which is scheduled for 3 to 7 January 2019, will go ahead at the iconic Cape Town ground.
Newlands construction work
“The construction is going to disrupt a little bit in terms of how they would normally host. There is a big hole in the ground. We need to make sure that the hosting standards that the International Cricket Council expect us to uphold are upheld, that the English also feel safe in coming to the grounds and that we can cater for all the spectators because we are expecting quite a big number of English supporters,” said Cricket South Africa chief executive officer Thabang Moroe late last month.
WPCA suspension
The WPCA are currently suspended by CSA, who exercised step-in rights last month. According to CSA, the WPCA board were conducting business under distressed conditions in relation to, among others, administration, governance and financial affairs.
“Professor Andre Odendaal will present monthly progress reports to CSA during the step-in period, which starts with immediate effect,” said CSA president Chris Nenzani at the time.
“CSA will exercise its rights until such time that it is reasonably of the opinion that the WPCA administrative and financial affairs are being conducted according to best practice.
“And that the association can assure equity partners and stakeholders that projects currently underway will unfold as planned.”
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