Cricket South Africa Faces Legal Action Over David Teeger’s Removal
Cricket South Africa (CSA) is facing legal action over its decision to remove David Teeger as the captain of the SA Under-19 team ahead of this year’s World Cup.
The 19-year-old was relieved of his role in January, with CSA citing “safety” reasons following Teeger’s pro-Israel comments made during the Absa Jewish Achiever Awards last November. Teeger had stated, “Yes, I’ve been given this award, and yes, I’m now the Rising Star, but the true rising stars are the young soldiers in Israel.”
The state of Israel has been involved in contentious military operations in the Gaza Strip following a terrorist attack on October 7, 2023, for which Hamas claimed responsibility. These actions have led to widespread protests globally, with many urging their governments to sever ties with Israel. Businesses and groups supporting Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have also been targeted by protesters. Independent observers have accused Israel of committing war crimes, including targeting civilians and aid workers in Gaza.
FEARED PROTESTS
CSA claimed that the threat of protests related to the war during the U19 World Cup prompted their decision. Despite this, Teeger was still selected as a player for all six of SA U19’s matches.
Reports indicate that the human rights protection NGO Citizens for Integrity has filed legal papers at the Gauteng Division of the High Court. The filings allegedly claim that CSA’s “security concerns” were unlawful, unconstitutional, and irrational.
Daniel Witz, the attorney for Citizens for Integrity, commented on the filing: “While reinstating Teeger to his former captaincy in a concluded tournament is impossible, we hope this case will result in a court declaration confirming that CSA acted irrationally and unlawfully. This would underscore the imperative to protect all rights and freedom of speech.”
“CSA has failed to explain why a security threat was posed only if Teeger remained captain, but not if he remained a team member. Additionally, CSA did not outline any measures to protect Teeger and the team if such a threat truly existed.”
“As the hosts and organizers of the tournament, CSA had an obligation to ensure the safety of their players, yet they failed to act appropriately. CSA’s decision not only embarrassed and humiliated Teeger, infringing on his rights and affecting his career, but it also violated the rights of all South Africans.”
