New Zealand Cricket reluctant to negotiate dates for South Africa Tests

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) is reluctant to negotiate the dates for their Test series against South Africa in February, 2024. Cricket South Africa (CSA) was hopeful that the dates for the Test series could be moved as they would clash with the SA20 2024. Notably, the series between South Africa and New Zealand will be held between February 4 and 17, 2024, respectively.

However, New Zealand Cricket is unwilling to negotiate the dates for the series as the higher-ups have confirmed that the flights, the practice games, and several other arrangements have been confirmed, and the board looks forward to hosting South Africa.

Another reason for their unwillingness could be their tight schedule for the home season, which includes a visit by the Australian team and the need to finish up the series in time by late March in time for the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

We've collaborated and agreed dates with CSA: Boock

Meanwhile, the New Zealand Cricket representative Richard Boock has confirmed that the itinerary for the tour has already been confirmed by Cricket South Africa (CSA) amid the tight schedule they already have to deal with. Moreover, he also emphasized that NZC sees the Proteas as a vital part of their cricket summer.

"These Tests have been part of the FTP since it was announced two years ago, we've collaborated and agreed dates with CSA, who have confirmed the tour, acknowledged the arrangements and have been in receipt of the schedule for several weeks. Flights have been confirmed, dates for the practice game have been agreed, and we're looking forward to the squad's arrival. The Proteas are a popular and formidable Test team and we view them as an important part of our home summer schedule," Richard Boock, NZC's manager of public affairs was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. 

With the SA20’s auction scheduled for September 2023, CSA will have a better idea of the players who will be available for the New Zealand tour after the various franchises scoop up the players. The auction will help South Africa field a squad that could be available for the games against New Zealand.

Furthermore, CSA CEO Pholetsi Moseki recently came forward to opine that the board is fully aware of their bilateral responsibilities, but the SA20 will be taking first priority in such matters.