'It was discussed that my contract would be upgraded' - Vernon Philander takes legal action against CSA

Former South Africa pacer Vernon Philander has taken legal action against former Cricket South Africa officials for a contract dispute during his international days. The 36-year-old is one of the finest bowlers to have played for his country and he enjoyed a brilliant Test career, picking up 224 wickets in 64 Tests at an average of 22.3. He picked up 13 five-wicket hauls and announced his retirement from the game in January 2020 after the home series against England.

Philander recently opened up on the grievances he had to face during the final stages of his international career with Cricket South Africa as he claims that he has been deprived of upgraded contracts. It has to be noted that Philander is the second fastest bowler to 50 wickets in Test cricket and his consistency was immaculate in the longer format.

Philander reveals the conversation with CSA

Philander noted that due to the threatening Kolpak deals, Cricket South Africa had decided to upgrade his contract to keep him playing for the country. The all-rounder noted that he was happy with the new contract and was the reason behind not leaving the national side.

“It was during these meetings that it was discussed that my contract would be upgraded if I remained eligible for the Proteas. After the meetings I immediately called Arthur and told him I was happy with the proposal and that I would continue playing for the Proteas in terms of the new agreements.” Philander exclusively told IOL Sport.

Philander added that CSA paid the new amount for only one year and revealed that the board had formed up irrelevant reasons for downgrading his contract for the next season again.

“I was paid the new amount for the next season, but not the following year. I was told that due to me not playing franchise cricket they could not pay me what was previously agreed upon. This has no bearing on my national contract. They presented their ‘ranking system’ which made no sense as I had actually gone up in the ICC Test rankings.” he added.