Excellence, the reason behind the selection of black players, says Geoffrey Toyana

Geoffrey Toyana has played a huge role in the revolution of South African cricket over the last six years. Toyana has previously spoken about the need to reconstruct South Africa cricket during his tenure as the Lions head coach. He welcomed the decision taken by South Africa Cricket to include six players of colour – three of them black African in every starting XI in domestic cricket, with open arms.

The upcoming T20 Global League, the newest initiative by the CSA, will not involve any such rules considering the engagement of foreign players and competition between the team owners and players. The elaborateness of the South African political landscape wil be difficult to catch for the owner from India and Pakistan while the rule of including four foreigners in every starting XI will also make things complicated.

Speaking about the issue Toyana said “I don’t think we should judge it in that way. We’ll see as the tournament starts what the balance of the teams will look like,” he told Sport24 on Sunday.

What Toyana had to say:

“I think our guys are at a level of being competitive now. Guys like Lungi Ngidi, Temba Bavuma, Aaron Phangiso, Eddie Leie … proper, proper players.” he added.

“I don’t think any of the black African players are going to disgrace anyone. All of them are good cricketers and competitors.” said Toyana.

Toyana will serve as the assistant coach for the Javed Afridi owned Benoni Zalmi team. Former South Africa skipper Graeme Smith has been appointed as the head coach of the team which was highly criticized by South Africa’s cricketing pundits because of the left hander’s inexperience in coaching. However, Toyana seems excited to work together with Graeme Smith.

“It’s going to be big,” Toyana said. “There are some youngsters who have gone for big prices. Everyone is talking about this competition and I expect the people of South Africa to come and support the tournament.” he added.

“I’m sure the experience of the Global League with all of these international players will uplift our standard. I expect our domestic T20 competition to become quite strong and competitive.” Toyana concluded.