South Africa’s Director of Cricket, Graeme Smith, has congratulated the Indian players and the BCCI for believing in the hosts’ capacity to stage matches despite the COVID-19 pandemic, saying their dedication has “set the example” for others to follow.
Despite rising concerns about the spread of the novel COVID-19 strain Omicron, which was initially reported in South Africa, the BCCI opted to go ahead with the much-anticipated tour.
India and South Africa completed a fantastic trip on Sunday, which included three Tests and as many ODIs.
“Big thank you @BCCI @JayShah @SGanguly99 and the Indian players and management for the faith you showed in SA cricket’s ability to pull off a safe and successful tour. Your commitment at an uncertain time has set the example that a lot can follow,” Smith tweeted.
The former captain’s message appears to be addressed at the Australian and English boards as well.
Last year, Australia postponed a three-match Test tour of South Africa due to a “unavoidable” coronavirus risk, and Smith was disappointed with CA’s decision.
After a COVID-19 breakout in a bio-bubble configuration in South Africa in December 2020, England returned home midway through a limited-overs series in South Africa.
The South African team’s revival was boosted by the Proteas winning both Test and ODI series against India, and the broadcast rights money from this tour is also likely to make CSA healthy again.
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South Africa’s discovery of the Omicron variant had generated significant concern ahead of India’s tour, since cases had surged in the country.
The Rainbow Nation’s tour of the Netherlands was canceled, and CSA’s domestic shows had to be rescheduled.
