South Africa domestic team warriors were penalised by Cricket South Africa (CSA) for breaching selection rules by fielding black African players more than required.
The five-point deduction has caused a playoff spot allowing the Dolphins to advance to the knockout stages in CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge Division One.
According to a report, the breach of selection protocols has cost the Warriors a place in the knockout stage of the One-Day Cup.
Despite having a strong league-stage campaign and finishing third on the table last week, the team has now demoted to fourth position following the penalty.
Cricket South Africa enforces specific player selection guidelines to promote diversity in domestic and international cricket. For domestic competitons, teams are required to include at least six players of colour in their playing 11, with a minimum of three black African players.
The quota system for the national team operates under slightly different rules. While the target remains six player of the colour, the requirement for black African players is reduced to two.
This target is measured as an average over the course of the season rather than being mandatory for each individual match.
CSA docked the Warriors points the same number they had earned for their win in that fixture, including a bonus point. The deduction effectively ends their chances of qualifying for the playoffs.
The Dolphins were awarded four points for the match and have climbed to second place in the standings. This means the Dolphins will now host the Titans in the upcoming play-off clash.
The punishment comes as a significant setback for the Warriors, who had shown consistent form throughout the competition. The enforcement of CSA‘s selection policy highlights the board’s firm stance on ensuring diversity and equal opportunities within South African Cricket.
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