"Death of test cricket," Steve Waugh reacts to South Africa's second-string squad for NZ test tour

Former Australian skipper Steve Waugh lashed out at Cricket South Africa for choosing makeshift squad for New Zealand tour.

Cricket South Africa came under fire after they announced a 14-member second-string squad for the upcoming test tour of New Zealand. The tour will be a part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle. The series will see New Zealand host uncapped Neil Brand-led South Africa for a two-match test series. South Africa’s senior pros have not been included as they will be busy playing in the second season of their homegrown franchise-based T20 league, SA20.

Cricket South Africa named 7 uncapped players in the 14-member squad with plenty of young faces who have just entered into the fray. Uncapped 27-year-old left-hand batsman Neil Brand has been named captain of the inexperienced South African side. Reacting to the same, former Australian skipper Steve Waugh has lashed out at Cricket South Africa for this decision and put the biggest concern looming large ahead for the cricket fans.

‘Is this a defining moment in death of test cricket?’ questions Steve Waugh

Legendary Australian batter Steve Waugh posed a big question ahead of the cricket fans and made an emotional post on his Instagram account. Waugh posted, “Is this a defining moment in the death of test cricket. Surely the ICC along the cricket boards of India , England and Australia must step in to protect the purest form of the game. A premium, equal match fee for all test players might be a good starting point.”

Steve Waugh also added that the business-friendly model and only looking at profits will make the era of legendary names irrelevant in the game of cricket. Waugh added, “History and tradition must count for something. If we stand by and allow profits to be the defining criteria the legacy of Bradman , Grace and Sobers will be irrelevant.” 

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This decision has also made fans concerned about the future of test cricket. South Africa are currently involved in a two-match test series against India. South Africa defeated India in the first test played at Supersport Park in Centurion. The second test will begin on 3rd January.

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