Dubai – SACA | South African Cricketers' Association

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Kyle Simmonds Crowned Overall Division 1 SACA MVP

The 2025/26 domestic cricket season concludes with Western Province all-rounder Kyle Simmonds named Division 1 Overall SACA MVP. Simmonds earned…

Liam Alder Named Overall SACA MVP for Domestic Division 2

Following the completion of all domestic fixtures, Liam Alder of the Garden Route Badgers finished at the top of the…

TWELVE YEARS OF RESEARCH-BASED PLAYER SERVICE

Over the past 12 years, the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) has cemented its dedication to evidence-based practice through a…

FICA RESPONDS TO ICC COMMENTS ON WORKSHOP ON BILATERAL INTERNATIONAL CRICKET

September 7, 2016March 17, 2026

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today responded to ICC comments on the Workshop on Bilateral International Cricket in Dubai, and the ICC’s confirmation on the failure to come to agreement on a workable Test league.

“Whilst we await full details of the outcomes of the meetings at the ICC, and the reasons for various proposals not being taken forward, it would be disappointing if the concept of Test leagues or other similar workable structures were shelved so early in this process.” FICA Executive Chairman, Tony Irish said.

“We look forward to confirmation of plans regarding the future of all three international formats, and continue to urge the ICC to explore all options in relation to a new structure for international cricket. We also look forward to that structure working alongside, and not competing with domestic T20 leagues. ”

“We remain concerned about the rising trend towards free agency in the current system, and the impact it will have on the global game. The growth, success and expansion of domestic T20 leagues is good for the game and for players, but bilateral international cricket is not moving with the times and is increasingly becoming an unattractive product.”

FICA remains committed to advocating for a more coherent and clear global cricket structure for fans, players and broadcasters, and one that is based on global, not regional or country interests.

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MASTERS CHAMPION LEAGUE FAILS TO HONOUR PLAYER CONTRACTS IN FULL

May 19, 2016March 17, 2026

FICA Executive Chairman, Tony Irish today made comment in relation to the inaugural Masters Champions League (MCL) event held in Dubai in January earlier this year. The MCL was run by Zafar Shah and event organisers Grand MidWest Sports.

“A significant number of players who played in the MCL have not been paid their contractual entitlements. As far as we are aware only one team, the Gemini Arabians has been paid in full and on time.” Irish said.

“We understand it is a new event, however, the event finished more than three months ago, and the situation is entirely unacceptable. If it is possible for the Gemini Arabians to do things the right way and to honour commitments to players, we don’t see why the organisers have not ensured the same has happened for all players. They have an obligation to do so”

“Cricket is a career, and just like other professionals, players make decisions based on the contracts they sign. It is extremely disappointing that many player contracts have not been honoured in full, and we hope that given the potential of this event, MCL pay the outstanding amounts to players immediately.”

“The dishonouring of player contracts is an issue that the entire global game should address. Player contracts are a fundamental part of professional cricket in all countries and should be viewed as assets by event owners and administrators alike because they secure player participation, whether for club or country. This story is too common in cricket and there are players with outstanding amounts owed to them around the world” Irish continued.

“The game needs robust player contract systems that work and are respected in all countries. This benefits everyone in the game, not just players. We also believe there should be fair and independent recourse and contract enforcement mechanisms for players in the event of disputes like this, such as a global arbitration body.”

FICA will assist affected players where possible, and will continue to advocate for a global system in which player contracts are honoured in all countries.