South Africa India Tour: Temba Bavuma and Dean Elgar Express Full Confidence in CSA Biosecurity Measures

South African white ball captain Temba Bavuma and red ball skipper Dean Elgar have expressed full confidence in their cricket board’s biosecurity measures ahead of the Indian series later this month amid concerns over a new variant of Covid-19 Omicron.

There is growing concern about the spread of the new variant of COVID-19, named Omicron, which was first reported in African countries. However, BCCI said the tour is underway at the moment with the first test scheduled for December 17.

“Our main goal was to protect cricket’s biosphere by managing strict entry standards and limited movement outside its cordon,” Cricket South Africa (CSA) chief medical officer Shuaib Manjra said in a statement. .

“What we have put in place in our ESB is a cordon sanitaire that provides full and continuous protection to all people who meet and comply with our very demanding guidelines and rules,” added Manjra.

“Playing cricket in an ESB was a huge challenge for everyone involved in the game,” commented Bavuma, Proteas white ball captain.

“Everything changed, from the length of our stays in hotels to the way we train and play. We weren’t even allowed to say hello or kiss when we were celebrating the wickets, that part was easier. to remember for some, more than for others, ”he laughs.

Bavuma said playing in the bio-bubbles has been tough and the ASC is to be commended for their work.

“Playing cricket in an ESB was a huge challenge for everyone involved in the game. Everything changed, from the length of our stays in hotels to the way we train and play. We weren’t even allowed to. to greet us or to hug each other. When we celebrated the wickets, that part was easier for some to remember, more than for others, ”he said.

“I am convinced that our BSEs meet the highest safety standards and that the protocols are established not only with consideration of individual physical well-being, but also of mental health,” Bavuma concluded.

Test Captain Elgar echoed Bavuma’s sentiments.

“It is hard to believe that we have been working in these BSE conditions for a year now, but anyone who has been affected, directly or indirectly by the COVID-19 virus, knows that it is a necessity if we are to continue playing locust. .

“It takes its toll on a player mentally and yet this team continues to produce good results and improve, something that I personally think is not talked about enough.

“The measures put in place and the hotels chosen take into account the physical and mental health needs of the teams.

“We don’t know how long we’ll continue to operate like this, but it’s gratifying to know that when tours arrive, the health and safety of everyone involved is top priority,” Elgar said.