South Africa Dismisses Cricket Captain Over Pro-Israel Statement

A week before the commencement of the home World Cup, South Africa removed U19 captain David Teeger from his position due to his statements expressing support for Israel. Teeger was originally slated to lead the host nation’s age-group team in the tournament beginning on January 19. However, Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced on Friday that he has been ousted from the role, and the organization is preparing for potential protests during the tournament.

Teeger, who will continue as a player on the team, allegedly dedicated a trophy he won in October to Israeli soldiers, hailing them as the “true rising stars” amidst Israel’s actions in Gaza. CSA, in a statement, acknowledged that they have been receiving regular security updates and risk assessments regarding the World Cup, anticipating protests related to the war in Gaza at the tournament venues. The organization expressed concern that these protests might focus on the position of the SA Under-19 captain, David Teeger, posing a risk of conflict or violence among rival protest groups.

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Considering the safety and interests of all participants and spectators, CSA decided to relieve David Teeger of the captaincy for the tournament. The decision was made to mitigate potential conflicts and violence related to the protests. CSA emphasized its duty to safeguard the well-being of everyone involved in the World Cup and stated that they must respect the expert advice provided for the safety of participants and spectators.

David Teeger had received recognition as the Rising Star at the ABSA Jewish Achiever Awards on October 22. During his acceptance speech, he reportedly dedicated the award to the state of Israel and every soldier serving, calling them the real rising stars. Pro-Palestine demonstrators had previously questioned Teeger’s selection before the New Year’s Test between South Africa and India, picketing at the main entrance of Newlands in Cape Town.