CSA welcomes decision to overturn Rabada ban
Cricket South Africa (CSA) has welcomed the outcome of the appeal process that will enable Kagiso Rabada to continue playing for the Proteas in the Test series against Australia.
Rabada has been cleared to play the remaining two Tests against Australia after winning an appeal against his ban over an alleged shoulder barge on Tuesday.
The International Cricket Council said Rabada had been found not guilty of making inappropriate and deliberate physical contact with Australian captain Steve Smith during the second Test in Port Elizabeth last week.
Judicial commissioner Michael Heron of New Zealand found Rabada guilty of the lesser charge of conduct contrary to the spirit of the game following an appeal hearing on Monday.
"I would particularly like to thank our legal team, led by Advocate Dali Mpofu and supported by the legal firm of David Becker and Associates, for the job they have done after having to accept the brief at unavoidably short notice," said CSA acting Chief Executive Thabang Moroe. "This is our first ICC appeal that has been successful.
"It has also been extremely gratifying to acknowledge the support we have received from members of the public as well as the business and legal fraternities and we are extremely appreciative of this. It augurs well for the PPC Newlands Test match which has always been extremely well supported.
"It is now important that everybody gets the focus back where it belongs on the game of cricket. We have witnessed a compelling series between two highly competitive and skilful teams that is locked 1-1 at the halfway stage and is attracting a global audience.
"I am sure all our fans and other stakeholders are looking forward to a very exciting continuation of the series at two of our iconic Test match venues."