ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: South Africa face major sanctions after non-compliance with WADA rules

South Africa won their first game of the ICC World Cup 2023 against Sri Lanka in Delhi.

South African sports, in general, and proteas cricket team, in particular, are currently facing severe scrutiny from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) due to non-compliance with anti-doping regulations.

This might result in the prohibition of South African national flag's display during the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023 in India.

This situation arises from the WADA's Executive Committee's (ExCo) conclusion that South African National Anti-Doping Organization (SA NADO) is not in compliance with the WADA 2021 Code. This means that South African flag will not be flown at any regional, continental, or global competitions, as stated in a WADA press release.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is in a precarious position as a result of South African situation. International Olympic Committee (IOC) will decide next week whether to approve cricket's inclusion in Olympics, and ICC may be in a tough position as a result of one of its full members team not abiding by the WADA code.

"During its meeting, the ExCo asserted the non-compliance of three anti-doping organizations (ADOs) with the World Anti-Doping Code."The two National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOs) in question are Bermuda and South Africa, and the Major Event Organization (MEO) in question is the Pan American Sports Organization (Panam Sports)," a recent WADA statement said.

Additionally, during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, the ICC will be required to follow WADA's punishments. ICC are in communication with WADA regarding this situation and has no immediate concerns until October 14, when the final decision is expected.

“South Africa's flag will not be flown at regional, continental and World Championships”- WADA regulations

As per Cricbuzz reports, on October 14, WADA will make its final decision, and the punishments will then take effect. Sports organizations in South Africa do have the option of appealing, which can postpone the repercussions.

The ICC might avoid the potential embarrassment of enforcing the WADA sanctions during the World Cup if SA NADO decides to appeal the sanctions. SA NADO are rumored to be considering filing an appeal.

The WADA explained the sanctions of non-compliance in an elaborate statement: "South Africa's flag will not be flown at regional, continental, and world championships and events organized by major event organizations (other than the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games) until SAIDS (South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport) is reinstated (sic); South Africa's flag will not be flown at the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games until SAIDS is reinstated (sic)."

South Africa started their ICC World Cup 2023 campaign by routing Sri Lanka in Delhi. Their next game is against Australia on October 12 in Lucknow.