Cricket News

South Africa pull out from ODI series of Australia tour; chances of direct qualification for the 2023 World Cup uncertain

Cricket South Africa (CSA) have decided not to play the ODIs during their tour of Australia. Cricket Australia, on July 13 (Wednesday), announced that South Africa have withdrawn from the ODI series in January 2023. Although,  both sides will be involved in a three-match Test series.

Earlier, CSA had requested to change the dates of the ODI matches, citing a packed international calendar as the reason but there was no slot available due to tight scheduling. With the Proteas deciding to withdraw from the ODI series, they have also agreed to concede the points from the three-match ODI series to Australia, which was set to be included in the ongoing ICC Super League- the cut-off for which is May 2023.

The decision will have big  implications on South Africa’s chances of making it to the direct qualification race for the 2023 ODI World Cup

“It is disappointing that Cricket South Africa will be unable to contest the ODI series in January,” Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia’s CEO, said in a statement. “That said, we are delighted to be hosting South Africa for the three-Test series which includes the Boxing Day and New Year’s Tests, and with the comprehensive schedule of international cricket that will take place across Australia throughout the summer,” he added.

“This will include the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and a record six touring teams for the Men’s and Women’s international series as well as the twelfth season of the BBL and the eighth season of the WBBL. We can’t wait to see fans back at the cricket this summer,” Hockley further said.

Meanwhile, Australia completed its tour of Sri Lanka recently. While Australia won the T20I series comfortably, the home team made a superb comeback and won the ODI leg by 3-2.  The focus then shifted towards the red ball games. The visitors played some excellent cricket during the first game and gained a 1-0 lead. However, Sri Lanka once again bounced back in the series and won the second Test by an innings and 39 runs.