Cricket South Africa launch ‘broad’ investigation on T20 chaos

Cricket South Africa (CSA) have officially commenced a “broad scope investigation” into the chaotic postponement of its T2o Global League.

The local federation endured widespread criticism and are fielding many questions over suspect corporate governance following the decision.

Also read: Cricket South Africa won’t ‘cut the bleeding’ anytime soon

Haroon Lorgat, former chief executive and main driver of the tournament, quit his post as a consequence of the malaise.

Following a board meeting at the weekend, CSA still insist they took the right decision.

This despite unhappiness from various stakeholders, particularly the contracted players.

The South African Cricketers Association has even called for them and coaches to be compensated.

“The Board reiterated its decision to postpone the start of the inaugural T20 Global League to the beginning of November 2018,” CSA said in a statement.

“The circumstances that led to this decision are being further scrutinised and discussed.”

CSA’s main motivation for delaying the implementation of the T20 Global League is rising costs.

Thabang Moroe, acting CEO, had previously said the federation would make a whopping net loss of over R340 million just to stage the tournament this year.

But a clear lack of transparency is also a concern.

“The Board has approved the commencement of a broad scope investigation into the internal processes on all aspects of the T20GL, as undertaken by various parties during the period of the establishment of the league. These investigations have already commenced,” the statement continued.

“The scope of the investigation will in principle cover the planning and execution of the T20 Global League with specific focus on, inter alia, aspects of governance, agreements concluded, payments, staff recruitment, authorisation and delegation of authority, league development strategy, decision making etc.”

It’s not exactly clear though who’ll be conducting the investigation.

There would be even more questions if it’s done internally.

Moroe might be tasked with leading the charge but he was part of a sub-committee that should’ve been kept abreast of all the developments in the first place.

During a media conference last week, he said he hoped the investigation could be completed within a month.

CSA also reiterated that team owners are “continually committed” to deliver the league.

That said, there are whispers that some franchise agreements could come under scrutiny during the investigation.

That would result in further damage to CSA and the tournament’s already battered reputation.