The South African U19 cricket team finds itself in a precarious position as their key sponsor, Diadora, has threatened to withdraw its support over the controversy involving former captain David Teeger.
U19 Proteas could lose Diadora sponsorship over David Teeger controversy
The sportswear company has expressed its displeasure regarding Teeger’s pro-Israel stance, which has sparked considerable debate within the cricket community and beyond.
A high-ranking executive at Diadora’s South African office was quoted saying,
“We will not tolerate Mr Teeger playing in any competition sponsored by Diadora.”
This statement followed Teeger’s speech at the Absa Jewish Achiever Awards, where he dedicated his Rising Star Award to the state of Israel and its soldiers.
“So I’d like to dedicate this award to the South African family that married off one son whilst the other is still missing. And I’d like to dedicate it to the state of Israel and to every single soldier fighting so that we can live and thrive in the diaspora,” he said at the time.
His remarks have since been met with both support and backlash, igniting a complex debate about politics in sports.
Teeger, who was removed from his position as the captain of South Africa’s U19 team for the 2024 Cricket World Cup, has been at the centre of this storm.
The decision to strip him of the captaincy, according to Cricket South Africa (CSA), was influenced by security concerns amidst growing pro-Palestine protests.
CSA explained that the decision was made in the best interest of all players, the team, and Teeger himself.
“In all the circumstances, CSA has decided that David should be relieved of the captaincy for the tournament. This is in the best interests of all the players, the SA U19 team and David himself,” CSA said at the time.
The controversy has not only affected Teeger’s role in the team but now threatens the financial backing of the U19 Proteas.
Diadora’s potential withdrawal poses significant challenges to the team’s preparations and participation in international events, including the upcoming tournament.
Despite the ongoing controversy, the U19 Proteas are forging ahead with their World Cup preparations.
The team, now led by Juan James, is gearing up for a series of warm-up matches before the main event commences on Friday, 19 January 2024.
CSA has announced a robust itinerary for the team, which includes matches against Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The young Proteas, drawing inspiration from the senior national teams, are focused on making a strong showing at the World Cup.
With the U19 World Cup being hosted in South Africa, the team is eager to capitalise on their home-ground advantage.
The squad, comprising talented players like Kwena Maphaka, Steve Stolk, and Richard Seletswane, is determined to perform well and possibly win the competition.
