South Africa cut Zimbabwe ties

Political turmoil prompts decision

Last updated: 23rd June 2008

Norman Arendse

Arendse: Cricket South Africa president

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Cricket South Africa has suspended its domestic agreements with the Zimbabwe Cricket Union due to the 'worsening situation' in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwean teams play in South Africa's domestic competitions and CSA had previously been a strong supporter of their neighbour, signing bilateral deals that allowed for development and administrative programmes.

Zimbabwe has been in political turmoil since a disputed general election in March. The opposition Movement for Democratic Change withdrew on Sunday from a presidential run-off with Robert Mugabe amid fears of violence.

"In the light of the worsening situation in Zimbabwe, CSA has reviewed its position in relation to Zimbabwe cricket," CSA president Norman Arendse was quoted as saying in the statement released on Monday.

"We have decided to suspend our bilateral agreements with the Zimbabwe Cricket Union until further notice.

"In the past, CSA has defended Zimbabwe cricket against heavy odds, but the general situation in Zimbabwe has now made this untenable.

"We will continue to comply with the International Cricket Council's future tours programme regarding Zimbabwe, as we are bound to this programme as a full member of the ICC."