India tour in South Africa

As it stands, India A will remain in South Africa with both teams committed to continuing their run of red balls.

The status of India’s December-January tour of South Africa remains unchanged at this time. It is understood that the Indian team will need special permission from the government to visit South Africa – the borders between the countries are open at the moment, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has instructed officials to review plans to ease travel restrictions.

“Both councils are in contact. They will take a final call soon. We will adhere to the Indian government’s travel directive in the meantime”

Arun Dhumal, BCCI Treasurer

India A no-return home might suggest the senior squad will follow, but the situation is changing rapidly with more and more countries imposing travel bans in the Southern Africa region. The United Kingdom, the United States of America, most of Europe and Australia have all stopped travel to and from the region. The South African government is asking them to cancel these sanctions.

While the ASC is likely to be worried about the arrival of the Indian team for the tour, the BCCI has decided not to rush to take a call at this time.

“We are monitoring the situation closely and player safety is paramount to BCCI and CSA,” BCCI Treasurer Arun Dhumal told ESPNcricinfo. “Both councils are in contact. They will take a final call soon. We will adhere to the Indian government’s travel directive in the meantime.”

Anurag Thakur, the former president of BCCI who is now the country’s sports minister, told ANI: “In such situations, every board, be it BCCI or any other, should get the permission from the Indian government. The government will make a decision when they get the request from them (BCCI).”

The Indian tour of South Africa, which will run from December 17 to January 26, includes three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is.