Tag: Tony Irish

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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…

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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…

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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…

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FICA RESPONDS TO OUTCOMES OF ICC BOARD MEETING

Sanctioning of Events & Player Release

In light of recent developments cricket is in need of a regulatory framework which recognises all elements of the global game and which will be effective now and in the future. In establishing this framework, FICA believes that the following should be recognised:

1. International cricket and Domestic T20 are both good for the game and are integral parts of the game’s future.
2. Domestic T20 is growing the game globally with fans and providing opportunity for players. International cricket needs to be strong and attract the best players. Establishing an appropriate balance between the two is critical for the future.
3. Cricket’s focus should be less on restricting players from playing where they are valued and more on positive measures to ensure an attractive system including in relation to scheduling, economic models and the creation of world class environments.
4. The movement of players is a fundamental aspect of growing and developing the game globally in both existing and new markets.

FICA is concerned that the narrowly defined objectives for a regulatory framework published by the ICC will not set the game up appropriately for the direction in which it is moving. If regulation is not effective it will not have the desired outcome, so this is as important for the future of international cricket as it is for the entire game. FICA has proposed broader and additional objectives based on a global vision. FICA believes that objectives must also include reference to the players’ fundamental employment rights, including players being able to play where they are valued.

FICA is further concerned at reports following the ICC meetings that blanket regulation is to be introduced to restrict players to playing in three T20 leagues and believes that any arbitrary restriction is likely to constitute a restraint of trade in most countries. Any regulations should be designed to minimise the likelihood of successful legal challenge.

“FICA believes that a fit-for-purpose global regulatory framework is necessary,” said FICA Executive Chairman, Tony Irish. “We will however continue to oppose blanket or arbitrary restrictive measures imposed on players without agreement. We urge the ICC to resolve imbalances and tensions caused by the structure of the game, scheduling and game economics through positive measures which will also allow the game to grow globally. FICA wants to be part of this endeavour.”

Code of Conduct

FICA supports holistic measures to protect the spirit and integrity of the game.

The ICC has predominantly focused on increasing its ability to punitively punish players, to the exclusion of more holistic or industry-wide measures that FICA believes would be most effective. FICA is concerned that some of the ICC’s measures also reduce players’ access to a fair hearing which becomes even more important when punishments are significantly increased.

In developing the game’s response to the issue of player behaviour, FICA encourages the ICC to also consider mechanisms to ensure that cricket officials are also held to the same standard of behaviour as the players.

Elements of the more holistic measures which FICA has proposed include:

– Conducting a thorough collaborative review and simplification process to bring the Code of Conduct to life

– Adopting one set of laws, rules or charter for all players and officials

– Sanctions which focus on rehabilitation and education, not just punishment

 – Greater clarity, education and training regarding the Code and Spirit of Cricket for players and officials, including targeted campaigns, as have been successfully used in other sports

– Mechanisms to ensure greater consistency in the application of the Spirit of Cricket and Code of Conduct

Consideration of how the game deals with the principle of “double jeopardy” where an issue has already been dealt with under a global code

“FICA will continue to urge the ICC to look to these wider measures to effectively deal with conduct across the entire game,” said Irish.

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FICA RESPONDS TO ICC MEDIA STATEMENT FOLLOWING KOLKATA MEETINGS

FICA commends the ICC on introducing T20I status for all member international teams. In line with FICA’s 2016 International Cricket Structural Review, FICA supports inclusiveness across the game and the view that T20 is one key vehicle to growing and globalising the game.

FICA notes that new minimum standards will be developed to ensure T20I is sustainable and affordable. FICA encourages that aim to be balanced with the need to ensure appropriate protections are in place for players and other stakeholders as the game grows in volume and prominence in more countries.

Future Tours Program (FTP)

FICA notes that a new FTP between 2019-2023 was signed off in Kolkata and commends the ICC for taking steps towards creating more context in some international cricket. FICA is concerned that it has not seen the FTP, and looks forward to clarification on:

How the formats relate to each other and operate in a global calendar that is easy to understand for fans and players alike; and
How scheduling for the next five years addresses the positive but relentless growth of domestic T20 and clear shifts in the player employment market, many of which were highlighted in FICA’s Men’s Employment Report 2017 released earlier this month
FICA continues to advocate for clarity and simplicity in the global cricket calendar, and a balance between new domestic T20 and traditional international cricket focused markets.

Regulations

FICA notes the formation of a working group to consider issues around ensuring international cricket remains attractive to players. It is hoped that this working group will appreciate the critical importance of engagement with players and their collective representatives in order to establish a workable framework. Clarity in the calendar, incentivisation, and a fit for purpose regulatory framework will be important for the game and players moving forward.

FICA continues to oppose arbitrary or restrictive regulations imposed on players that are not part of a collectively agreed framework.

Player Behaviour

FICA is supportive of collaborative processes to address issues in the game and is encouraged that the culture across cricket at various levels will be reviewed.

FICA is concerned that the main published focus of the ICC review appears to be stricter and heavier sanctions on players. The players are a product of the professional and organisational environments they operate in, and any global review and process should not simply focus on player sanctions. A genuinely collaborative negotiation of codes based on reciprocity with those who run the game, coordinated global education, and syncing of international and domestic processes where possible, will all be important to the success of overall measures.

Concussion

FICA welcomes the introduction of concussion guidelines and looks forward to further engaging with the ICC to ensure that guidelines are based on science, and enforceable consistent standards to ensure players around the world are protected by the game.

Cricket Committee

FICA congratulates Belinda Clark on her appointment to the Cricket Committee. FICA continues to urge the ICC to afford women’s players the same right that men’s players have to a player nominated representative on the Cricket Committee, or other appropriate body. In FICA’s latest global player survey, 100% of women’s players believe this should happen.

FICA Executive Chairman Tony Irish said: “The global game is at a stage where the player dynamic that exists between the traditional international cricket landscape and the T20 leagues landscape has become one of the key factors driving the direction of the game. Collaboration with players and their representatives has never been more important and will be vital to success in the implementation of some of the important outcomes of this round of ICC meetings.”

For further information, please contact media@thefica.com

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CSA AND SACA CONCLUDE INTERIM AGREEMENT

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) and Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced today that an Interim Agreement has been reached and will apply until MOU18 Agreement has been officially finalised.
The short-term arrangement will allow the player contracting process to go ahead for the coming contract year and ensure that players will not be out of contract after 30th April 2018.

CSA and SACA have also committed to negotiating a recognition agreement to regulate the ongoing relationship between them. The two bodies have agreed on the date of 30th June 2018 as the bull’s eye deadline by which MOU18 should be finalised with set dates in May and June for negotiations meetings.

Summary of the key aspects of the Interim Agreement:

1. Player Contracts
An interim increase of 6% will be applied to fund the remuneration of both national and franchise players and this will apply to their standard contract benefits with effect from 1st May 2018. This will not preclude any additional increases, which may apply retrospectively to 1st May 2018, when the MOU18 is finalised.

2. Revenue Share Model
CSA has committed to maintaining a revenue share model with the players, details of which will be finalised as part of the MOU18.

3. Commercial Rights
The collective licensing of player commercial rights to CSA, for use by it and its commercial partners, will be extended by SACA for an interim two-month period until 30th June 2018. CSA and SACA have committed to negotiating a new long term commercial rights agreement to apply from 1st July 2018, the terms of which will be no less favourable to players than those existing in the current commercial agreement under the MOU14.

4. MOU18
It is intended that the MOU18 will establish the longer term financial arrangements necessary to underpin the national and franchise player contracts on a sustainable basis for the next four to five years. It will also deal with a wide range of player matters, relating to their employment and their careers as professional cricketers. Many of these will be similar to the arrangements under the MOU14.

CSA and SACA have set 30th June 2018 as the target deadline by which time the MOU18 should be finalised. In addition, they have agreed to specific dates during May and June for negotiation meetings.

“We are satisfied that this Interim Agreement addresses the uncertainty that has existed amongst players regarding the MOU and their contracts and it ensures that no national or franchise player in the system going forward is left without a contract come 1st May 2018,” said Tony Irish, SACA’s chief executive.

“The Interim Agreement also contains commitments to key issues outside the player contracts and commits the parties to further structured negotiation over a two-month period which aims to finalise the full ambit of player benefits, and other player relevant matters, to apply over the longer, four to five-year term of the MOU18.”

“There is still a long way to go in these negotiations but CSA and SACA have both acted in the best interests of the game by setting a clear platform needed to jointly and constructively get this done within a two-month period,” concluded Thabang Moroe, CSA Acting Chief Executive.

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SACA RESPONDS TO CSA ON PLAYERS MOU

 

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) today responded to statements made by Cricket South Africa (CSA) in a CSA media release late yesterday regarding the players MOU.

 

The MOU is a comprehensive collective agreement concluded on a four year basis between CSA, SACA and cricket Franchises which regulates critical matters relating to professional cricketers, including the contracts of national and franchise players. The current MOU will expire on 30 April 2018 and a new MOU would ordinarily commence on 1st May 2018 and run for a four year period from that date. Certain key elements of the MOU (which include the financial model underpinning player contracts and benefits) need to be agreed between CSA and SACA prior to player contracts being finalised.

 

“We are both surprised and disappointed that CSA has seen fit to make a public statement announcing plans relating to the MOU without giving us any proper opportunity to respond to, or to deal with, these first” said Tony Irish, SACA’s chief executive. The suggested plans have caused consternation amongst players and they require a response from SACA. The indication of further possible delays and the unworkability of certain aspects of what is being suggested are particular matters of concern to us. The suggestion also that there have actually been negotiations conducted by SACA officials with CSA on the MOU to date is also not correct. Negotiations on the key elements have yet to start”

 

“SACA has been doing everything possible from its side for approximately three months to engage with CSA on the MOU and to deal with the key elements to enable player contracts to be finalised well in advance of 30th April 2018, being the date on which the majority of player contracts end. In past MOU’s the key elements have always been agreed by the end of February at the latest to ensure a proper player contracting process can take place well in advance of expiry dates. Unfortunately our attempts to date have been met with very little response from CSA and much of our correspondence has gone unanswered.”

 

“We have now reached a point where many of our players could be out of contract in less than two weeks. The effect of this runs across the player group from senior players who play for the Proteas to young players seeking to make their way in franchise cricket.”

 

“The delays have created an environment of uncertainty for players, and also for Franchises who wish to secure their players. This comes at a time when South African cricket needs to do whatever it can to retain its players in the face of competing opportunities afforded to players in the emerging T20 leagues market and also in the UK. A key recommendation of CSA’s National Teams Review Report released last year was the implementation of an effective retention strategy.”

 

“CSA further announced in yesterday’s release that it is willing to extend existing player contracts. This has caused confusion because it doesn’t cater for what is actually happening on the ground for many players. Some players have already been told that they will no longer be contracted, some will be moving between national and franchise contracts, some will be moving between franchises and some will be first time franchise players. Extensions of contract are simply unworkable for all of these players”

 

“Although CSA now acknowledges in its media statement that concluding the MOU has become a matter of urgency it goes on to suggest that a new agreement may only be finalised in July. We do not understand why such a long further delay may be necessary. We believe that the new MOU is likely to be substantially similar to the existing one in most respects”

 

“Whilst SACA does not have an issue with clarifying the relationship between it and CSA we urge CSA to prioritise finalising the key elements of the MOU so that there is a greater degree of certainty and security for players going forward. Our players deserve that.”
“Should an interim arrangement be necessary because finalisation of all the key elements can’t now be done by 30th April, then we believe that this needs to be agreed with SACA, before any further media statements are made, to ensure that it is workable and that it aligns with, and feeds into, the MOU once finalised.”

 

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FICA Establishes Player Advisory Committees

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today announced the establishment of its men’s and women’s Player Advisory Committees.

The committees, comprised predominantly of current senior international players nominated by their home players’ association, complement FICA’s ongoing program of structured engagement with its member players’ associations and players around the world, to ensure it is accurately representing collective player views and interests at the global level.

The committees will each hold a structured annual meeting via tele-conference and will also engage informally on a regular basis throughout the year. They will focus on both cricketing and employment related issues that affect players globally.

The committees will play a part in ensuring that players have a strong and unified voice on important issues at the top of the game.

The FICA Player Advisory Committees are:

Men’s  

Ross Taylor (New Zealand)         

Jason Holder (West Indies)

William Porterfield (Ireland)       

Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh)    

Aaron Finch (Australia) 

JP Duminy (South Africa)             

Kyle Coetzer (Scotland)

Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)    

Vikram Solanki (FICA President – England)           

Graeme Smith (FICA Independent Board Member – South Africa)            

Tom Moffat (FICA Chief Operating Officer)         

 

Women’s

Heather Knight (England)

Hayley Matthews (West Indies)

Alyssa Healy (Australia)

Dane Van Niekerk (South Africa)

Amy Satterthwaite (New Zealand)

Mary Waldron (Ireland)

Lisa Sthalekar (FICA Independent Board Member – Australia)

Tom Moffat (FICA Chief Operating Officer)

Commenting on the formation of the Player Advisory Committees:

Ross Taylor said:
“It’s important that player views are heard and contribute to the future of the game. Through FICA and our players’ associations, we want to continue to lead some thinking on important areas in the game and the formation of these committees is a great step for players collectively around the world.”

Dane Van Niekerk said:
“The committees are a great initiative and part of making sure that the players’ views contribute to decisions in the game.”

Lisa Sthalekar said:
“The women’s game is going from strength to strength and the players are a big part of that. It is essential the players collectively have a strong voice and are fairly and professionally represented as the game develops. I am looking forward to working with the committee as FICA continues to evolve its important role.”

Jason Holder said:
“This is a big part of ensuring player issues are discussed and genuinely represented globally and I’m looking forward to being involved.”

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JON JON SMUTS WINS THE SACA MVP IN FRANCHISE CRICKET

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) congratulates Jon Jon Smuts on winning the 2017/18 SACA MVP (Most Valuable Player) for domestic Franchise Cricket.

The SACA MVP formula calculates player on-field performances, in domestic competitions, taking into account batting, bowling, fielding dismissals and captaining abilities and weighting these in each performance according to the context of the match. The formula is similar to that used by other players associations around the world.

Smuts finished the season on 479.387 points in the overall rankings, 66.974 points ahead of 2017/18 Hollywoodbets all-rounder, Senuran Muthusamy.

Despite spending time away from the domestic competitions following his Proteas call-up for the T20 Series against India, Smuts managed to hold onto his lead at the top of the overall rankings after a stellar season in all three formats.

In addition to winning the SACA MVP, the Warriors captain picked up the top ranking spot in the Momentum One-Day Cup rankings with 154.310 points. He finished third in the Sunfoil Series rankings with 207.482 points and second in the Ram Slam T20 rankings with 117.596 points.

World Sports Betting Cape Cobras captain JP Duminy dominated the Ram Slam T20 rankings early on in the competition and finished with 122.425 points having scored 356 runs, only five runs behind tournament-leading run scorer Reeza Hendricks. It was Duminy’s record-breaking 37 off one over against the VKB Knights in Cape Town which sealed his position at the top of the Ram Slam T20 rankings.

Sunfoil Series winner, Simon Harmer, also enjoyed a consistent and steady climb up the overall rankings this season. The Warriors off-spinner picked up his 20th career five-wicket haul against the VKB Knights in East London to take the lead and finish with 292.399 points in the Sunfoil Series rankings. As the only bowler with four five-wicket hauls and a ten-for in the domestic season, Harmer was a clear winner.

“It’s a great feeling to win the SACA MVP,” said Smuts. “The changes in rankings are followed by franchise players after each round of matches and it’s a good indicator of form and on-field performance as it takes into account key aspects of a match and all disciplines of the game.”

“Congratulations to Jon Jon for winning the SACA MVP this year, and also for finishing first in the Momentum One-Day Cup rankings for the second year in a row”, said Tony Irish, SACA’s chief executive. “To win overall a player has to perform for his franchise in just about every round of matches and in all three of CSA’s domestic competitions through the season.”

“I’d also like to congratulate JP Duminy and Simon Harmer on leading the way in the Ram Slam T20 and the Sunfoil Series respectively. It has been another year of exciting franchise cricket with records being broken, matches and competitions going down to the wire and some outstanding performances from established players and from young players.”

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SACA AND CSA REACH AMICABLE AGREEMENT ON PLAYER T20GL COMPENSATION

Cricket South Africa and the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) are pleased to announce that amicable agreement has been reached in terms of compensation to be paid to the players who were to play for various franchises in the inaugural 2017 edition of the T20 Global League.

The League was postponed to 2018 in terms of a decision taken by the Board of Directors of CSA at its meeting on 10 October 2017.

Payment will be made in three equal instalments between December 2017 and April 2018.

“I would like to thank SACA for the amicable manner in which this issue was settled in the best interests of South African cricket and the sustainability of its development and international cricket programmes,” commented CSA Acting Chief Executive Thabang Moroe. “The settlement will help bridge the gap between player expectation and the disappointment of having to postpone the league.

“Our players are key stake holders in the game and are also CSA’s most valuable assets which is why we invest heavily in our development programmes to produce our best possible national side.

“We look forward to continuing this positive relationship with our players and their representatives,” concluded Mr. Moroe.

“This was an issue affecting 138 South African and foreign players and we’re very happy that we’ve been able to resolve it for all of them,” said Tony Irish, chief executive of SACA. “The settlement is both fair and responsible and has been well received by the players. I would like to thank Cricket South Africa for its role in ensuring this outcome.”

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FICA RESPONDS TO THE ICC ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION STRUCTURES

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) Responds to the International Cricket Council (ICC) Announcement of New International Competition Structures

Overall Cricket Structure

FICA acknowledges the amount of work that has been done, and that a step forward has been taken, by the ICC and various country Boards in formulating and agreeing a Test league and ODI league. FICA remains concerned however that, as part of the changes, the new overall cricket structure does not address existing weaknesses and imbalances in the global playing landscape, and the need to ensure an appropriate balance between international cricket and the domestic T20 leagues.

“Whilst some of what ICC has now agreed is positive, notably in regard to the ODI league, we feel that the game has missed a significant opportunity to provide real clarity and consistency to the overall global structure,” said Tony Irish, Executive Chairman of FICA.

“One of international cricket’s biggest challenges is the increasing prioritisation by players of T20 leagues ahead of international cricket and this can only be addressed by appropriate structural change. FICA’s 2016 International Cricket Structure Review (FICA International Cricket Structural Review ), which was shared with the ICC, is based on collective player views, player labour market data and player insights from around the world. It identified key areas which we, and the players, believe needed to be addressed as part of a much needed change in the global structure aimed at ensuring the health and viability of international cricket.”

“The introduction of Test and ODI leagues to create context and sporting narrative was one these but others include, for example, the removal of the inherent conflict for players between international cricket and domestic T20 leagues, balancing all three formats of the game, removing scheduling conflicts by adopting clear internationally recognised scheduling windows, adopting a centralised approach to potential innovations such as day/night and four day Tests and developing a clear pathway and meritocratic opportunity for developing nations. These really should have been addressed in one new structure.”

ODI League

FICA welcomes the introduction of the proposed ODI league and in particular the fact that the number of matches is clearly regulated to ensure the volume of cricket is controlled and that matches without context are not played outside the league structure.

“Although it’s not ideal that teams won’t play all other teams during the cycle the league is otherwise clear in its structure and regulation and it also provides meaningful opportunities to 13 teams,” said Irish. “We will still need to see how effective it is in feeding into the ICC Cricket World Cup.”

Test League

Whilst FICA acknowledges some context has now been introduced into Test cricket it is clear that optimal change has been restricted by the fact that context is being wrapped around existing bilateral scheduling arrangements instead of the other way around. FICA believes that regulation in the Test structure to ensure clarity and consistency doesn’t go far enough.

“The fact that countries will play different numbers of Test matches in a series depending on the opposition will mean that any points system will not be simple and easily understandable,” said Irish. “We will have to see exactly how the points will work but I think it’s a challenge to run a genuine league when some countries will be playing significantly more matches than other countries in the same league table.”

“It is also left up to countries to play Test matches outside the competition structure which is likely to be confusing, and simply adds volume without context. Perhaps some of these non-league matches will be against new Test nations but then it’s a pity that there is no clear pathway for those countries to advance or enter the competition based on merit.”

Four Day Tests

FICA notes that four day Test matches will not be part of the Test league.

“We are not sure of the objective of playing four day Tests right now,” said Irish. “The format doesn’t need trialing as it’s played in most domestic first class competitions. We see the benefit that four day Tests could bring to an overall competition structure but the benefit of change is not clear if it’s not part of a structure. In these circumstances we don’t see the need to tinker with what many treasure as part of the heritage and tradition of the game.”

Conclusion

“Although FICA was involved in conceptual discussions on these leagues neither we, nor the players, have been part of the final development of the competition structures. I think we should have been, especially because the player labour market and player decision-making are significant drivers of what the future of the game will look like.”

“It seems that the agreed structure will be locked-in for some time. We will now have to see whether the changes have gone far enough to sufficiently enhance international cricket.”

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FICA CONGRATULATES THE ACA & AUSTRALIAN PROFESSIONAL CRICKETERS ON MOU AGREEMENT

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today congratulated the Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) on successfully negotiating a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on behalf of its members for the next five years based on the same partnership principles that have served the game so well, and including female players for the first time.

On behalf of the FICA Board, Tony Irish, FICA Executive Chairman said:

“We commend the ACA and Australia’s male and female players for the unity they showed during this difficult process. The ACA and the players they represent have come under enormous pressure in trying circumstances over the last year, and the outcome they have achieved is testament to that unity.”

“We particularly acknowledge the players who have stood up and spoken out, on behalf of their fellow professionals, and we applaud them for their leadership.”

“The majority of Australia’s professional cricketers were forced into unemployment and told they would not be back-paid. The ACA was deprived of vital information for much of the negotiating period. Repeated calls for the involvement of CA’s chief executive and proposals to mediate the issues (both of which would have led to a resolution of this dispute at an earlier date) were ignored. Yet despite all this the players and their players’ association showed tremendous resolve in ensuring that a fair revenue share model was retained, and that Australia’s female players were included in this arrangement”.

“This outcome is significant not only for the Australian players but also for players elsewhere around the globe. Revenue share is a key component in ensuring that players are genuine stakeholders in the game and we consider it to be international best practice in professional cricket around the world. The inclusion of women cricketers in this also leads the way in the women’s game which continues to grow and professionalise globally.”

FICA looks forward to continuing to assist and support other member players’ associations, and the newly formed Scottish Cricketers’ Association, being the first formally established players association in an ICC associate country. FICA will also continue to assist professional cricketers who wish to establish players’ associations in those countries where they currently don’t exist.

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FICA EXTENDS SUPPORT TO THE ACA & AUSTRALIAN PROFESSIONAL CRICKETERS

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today extended its support to the Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) and its members. 230 professional cricketers, whom it represents, have been rendered unemployed following the ending of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the players and Cricket Australia (CA) and the failure of CA to negotiate a new agreement with the ACA based on the same partnership principles of the previous MOU.

FICA is concerned with CA’s desire to end the percentage revenue sharing model that has so successfully underpinned the partnership between the players and administrators in Australia for twenty years. The model has not only been hugely successful for Australian cricket but has been a model of best practice adopted by associations in cricket and other sports, worldwide.

FICA is also seriously concerned with CA’s approach to its dealings with the ACA throughout this ongoing process. FICA commends the ACA and the Australian players for their unity and resolve and for their consistent attempts to negotiate with CA in a professional and transparent manner, including their willingness to use independent mediation to reach a resolution.

FICA notes the indications given by CA that it may attempt to restrict now un-contracted players from competing in other cricket events by refusing to grant them a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or threatening them with future playing bans. FICA reiterates its strong opposition to any artificial restrictions that unfairly attempt to prevent players from earning a living and that have not been agreed with players or their representatives. FICA believes that such restrictions would be open to legal challenge in most jurisdictions as a restraint of trade.

The entire FICA Board has offered its support to the ACA and the Australian players.

Vikram Solanki, FICA President said:
“The players are the game. History has shown that where country boards work in genuine partnership with players and their representatives the game thrives and succeeds. Cricket is at a crucial moment in its history, with new and competing markets for players, fans and broadcasters. I believe that boards should be working more collaboratively with players in the current cricket landscape, not pushing them away.”

Tony Irish, FICA Executive Chairman and SACA CEO said:
“FICA and its member associations stand shoulder to shoulder in support of the ACA and the Australian cricketers in their current dispute with their board. As an important stakeholder in the game, players and their associations deserve to be treated with professionalism and respect. It is in the interests of everyone in the world game that the situation in Australia is resolved quickly and in a manner that is acceptable to the players collectively.”

Lisa Sthalekar, FICA Independent Board Member and ACA Executive Member said:
“It has been heartening to see the unity shown from the male and female players across Australia at a time when they have come under immense pressure. I know there is a lot of support around the world for the principled stance they are taking to maintain a genuine partnership for all players, not just a few.”

Graeme Smith, FICA Independent Board Member said:
“I was part of a revenue share partnership model for many years as a player and this was a critical factor in fostering the relationship between Board and players. In the current cricket environment where players have other options I don’t understand why a board would want to change a partnership that has proved to be successful.”

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FICA CONGRATULATES NEW ICC MEMBERS AND URGES ICC TO PRIORITISE STRUCTURE

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today congratulated Ireland and Afghanistan on achieving full membership of the ICC and Mr Imran Khawaja on election as deputy chairman of the ICC Board and responded to other reported outcomes of last week’s ICC meetings in London.

Ireland and Afghanistan

FICA congratulates Afghanistan and Ireland on becoming full members of the ICC.

“The promotion of Ireland and Afghanistan to full member status is welcomed by FICA and we look forward to more countries being able to take this step in the future as one aspect of the global expansion of the game,” said FICA Executive Chairman Tony Irish.

International Structure

FICA notes, from media reports, that there appears to be some progress made on Test match and ODI structures, but that there still appears to be no formal outcome on this.  FICA continues to urge the game to prioritise changes to the overall playing structure in order to achieve the most sustainable future for the game and for its players.

The player trends and the shifts in the games’ employment market, highlighted in previous FICA reports, have continued over the last twelve months and the game is becoming increasingly club based and fragmented, creating different markets for players.  The latest T20 league in South Africa, along with the proposed English league, are yet further indications of the clear direction of the game and that the alternative domestic T20 market for players will continue to grow.

“Because of the current playing structure of the game, players are being increasingly forced to choose between the traditional employment market involving international cricket and the more financially attractive new markets in domestic T20 leagues” said, Irish.

“The international game is being seriously challenged by these domestic leagues for time, resource, players and fans not only as a consequence of their attractive nature but also because of failing traditional structures.”

“Putting the best possible structures and context around international cricket is vital to improve the international cricket product, but it is also critical that such structure creates a situation where domestic T20 and international cricket can co-exist, and not compete.  I fear for the future of international cricket if this change doesn’t happen soon.”

FICA believes solutions to imbalances in the structure of the game in the shifting landscape can be found in some of the following:

  • a genuine global structure and scheduling framework for all three formats.
  • a balance between the traditional and new markets which promotes the best players being able to play in a balance of both.
  • a collaborative international approach which includes looking at scheduling windows and at how other sports balance club versus country conflicts.
  • a fit for purpose global regulatory framework agreed with and bought into by, the players.
  • a decreased focus on tinkering with micro issues and delivery mechanics which simply ‘plaster over’ some of the current failings.

Financial Model and Governance

FICA congratulates Mr Imran Khawaja on his election as deputy chairman of the ICC Board and welcomes the appointment of a representative of the Associate countries to this position.

FICA also welcomes a further step towards the unwinding of the ‘Big Three’ financial arrangements and a shift towards recognized principles of good governance and, notably, both the inclusion of a female independent director on the ICC and a more equalized voting system around its table.

“It is hoped that the fairer distribution of financial resources across the game will now be utilized in each country in such a way that it maintains the playing strength of that country.   It is also hoped that the governance changes at ICC will promote prioritization of the global interests of the game ahead of regional interests” concluded Irish.

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OUTCOMES FROM FICA EXECUTIVE MEETING IN LONDON

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today made comment following a FICA Executive meeting at the Oval in London that focused on the rapidly changing global cricket and player career landscapes.

The Changing Global Cricket and Player Career Landscapes

The rapidly changing global cricket and player career landscapes were discussed at length, including the impact of domestic T20 leagues in delivering various career paths and choices for players around the world. FICA will continue to advocate for the balancing of traditional cricket structures with new markets and domestic T20 cricket.

The meeting resolved to continue to oppose any unfair restrictions on freedom of movement that are imposed on players in the current landscape without the agreement of players and discussed the need for a new regulatory framework agreed with player representatives in an improved global cricket structure.

FICA Supports ACA and Australian Players

Alistair Nicholson, the CEO of the Australian Cricketers’ Association and Executive member of FICA, briefed the Executive on the ongoing dispute in Australia.

The meeting commended the ACA and Australian international and domestic players, men and women, for remaining united during attempts to divide them.

FICA affirmed its full support for the ACA and player revenue sharing principles, which it considers to be global best practice in maintaining player stakeholding in the game in each country. It also discussed the importance of governing bodies respecting players’ chosen representatives.

FICA to Meet with Male and Female Player Groups in the UK

The meeting reiterated the need to ensure proper collective representation of players at all levels, with an increasing focus on the representation of female players.

The importance of direct engagement with all player groups was re-affirmed, in ensuring that their views and opinions on key issues are represented effectively.

FICA will meet with male and female player groups during the ICC Champions Trophy and Women’s World Cup events in the UK.

Continued Support for the Formation of an Indian Players’ Association

FICA confirmed its commitment to assisting Indian cricketers to set up an independent players’ association after the Lodha Committee and Indian Supreme Court ruled that an association should be formed.

It noted that both India’s national and domestic players are key stakeholders in the world’s largest cricket economy. Assisting where possible to ensure those players have an independent collective voice, as well as creating player wellbeing, personal development and education programs will continue to be a priority.

Establishment of Scottish Cricketers’ Association

FICA confirmed its commitment to assisting players from associate countries to form players’ associations.

The Executive noted the formation of the Scottish Cricketers’ Association (SCA) as a significant step for players in Scotland and in associate countries generally. FICA looks forward to welcoming SCA as a new member of FICA, subject to formalities at the FICA Annual Meeting in September.

Health, Safety, Security

Passing on accurate and up to date security information to players continues to be a priority focus for FICA.

Security experts briefed the Executive on the current security landscape in all cricket countries, including in relation to both men’s and women’s ICC events in 2017.

Anti-Corruption

The meeting noted the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit’s commitment to forming a partnership with players, through their chosen representatives, and FICA looks forward to finalising a framework for such partnership.

Commenting on the meeting, FICA Executive Chairman, Tony Irish said:

“This was a forward thinking meeting and included in-depth discussions on the direction the game is moving and how we as the world players body need to deal with that.”

“The global cricket landscape is providing more choice and more variety for career direction for players around the world. Players are no longer constrained by the traditional vertical career pathway that focused on international cricket. The domestic T20 leagues, which are increasing in number and sophistication are presenting multiple new career options for players. It is critical that the right balance is found between the traditional and the new markets”.

“It is more important than ever to ensure players are represented collectively around the world. FICA and its players’ associations have committed to continuing to work closely together across all operational areas.”

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FICA RESPONDS TO ICC MEETINGS OUTCOME

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today responded to the outcomes of this week’s ICC meetings in Dubai.

“Decisions made at this critical juncture are not only significant for the future of the game, but also impact directly, and indirectly, on players around the world,” said FICA Executive Chairman Tony Irish.

Financial Model

In regard to the ICC’s financial model, FICA welcomes the unwinding of the ‘Big Three’ financial arrangement which promoted the interests of three countries above everyone else.

“FICA hopes that this will lead to greater financial clarity, consistency and transparency across all countries” said Irish. “The global game needs as many countries as possible to be economically healthy, but it will now be equally important to ensure that all countries apply sufficient resource to ensuring that their teams are competitive and that they are able to retain their best players in international cricket.”

Governance

In regard to the ICC’s governance, FICA welcomes the shift in the ICC’s constitution and governance structures but believes changes should go further.

“We will continue to urge the ICC to make those changes necessary to ensure that it becomes a truly independent global governing body, making decisions for the good of the global game” said Irish.

International Structure

FICA notes that no decisions have been taken relating to new competition structures for the three formats of the men’s game and on a global scheduling framework.

“This is a critical time in the game for a new global playing structure and framework” said Irish. “This structure must provide the right balance between international cricket and domestic T20 leagues, and accommodate clear trends in the global player employment market and the global cricket economy. The discussions on this at the ICC have been going on for some time now and I can’t emphasise enough how important it is for players that a better structure is finalised. FICA continues to urge the ICC to prioritise this issue.”

FICA also notes the ongoing work by the ICC Women’s Committee in developing and evolving clear competition structures for women’s cricket.

Development

FICA commends the ICC for committing to pay outstanding salaries for the national contracted players of Nepal while the Cricket Association of Nepal is suspended.

“FICA hopes that the ICC and Member Boards will take a similar approach in relation to the significant amounts which are due to players around the world for playing in events sanctioned by the ICC and/or Member Boards” said Irish.
“FICA and our member players’ associations have an important role to play, on behalf of all of the players we represent around the world, in working with key stakeholders in international cricket and domestic leagues and competitions to move the game forward in a positive way.”

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SACA CONGRATULATES SACA MVP 2016/17 WINNERS

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) today congratulated Warriors all-rounder, Colin Ackermann, on winning the SACA Most Valuable Player (MVP) title in franchise cricket for his performances over the three domestic competitions in the 2016/17 season. Ackermann finished on a total of 435, 207 points.

The SACA MVP domestic rankings lists the top performing franchise players competing in CSA’s domestic competitions. Players earn points, based on an internationally recognised formula used by several players’ associations around the world, for batting, bowling, fielding and for contribution to matches won by their team. Points are weighted across the different formats to ensure that critical performances in each match earn a player the appropriate number of points.

The overall SACA MVP Rankings combine a players’ performance in all three domestic competitions and are an indicator of consistency of performance through the season. Performances in a particular competition are also recognised in the SACA MVP Rankings relating to each of the Sunfoil Series (four days), Momentum One-Day Cup (50 overs) and CSA T20 Challenge (20 overs) competitions.

Following a very good start to the season, Ackermann’s consistency with both bat and ball earned the Warriors all-rounder a total of 1431 runs and 16 wickets in all competitions. Ackermann took the overall SACA MVP title, 34.129 points ahead of VKB Knights paceman Marchant de Lange, who finished second, with Robbie Frylinck from the Hollywoodbets Dolphins rounding out the top three.

“The SACA MVP is something all of us franchise cricketers strive to win because it measures every aspect of the game across the three domestic competitions. It is recognised by players as a measure of consistency throughout the season. I’m proud to have won this award but must also give some credit to my Warriors teammates in helping me to do it” said Ackermann.

The SACA MVP rankings also focus on performances in each particular competition. VKB Knights opening bowler Duanne Olivier, clinched the top spot in the four-day Sunfoil Series rankings, finishing with 52 wickets in 8 matches. Simon Harmer and Marchant de Lange finished in second and third respectively on the Sunfoil rankings.

Jon-Jon Smuts was a runaway winner of the Momentum One-Day Cup rankings. The all-rounder scored 581 runs at an average of 52.81, and picked up 14 wickets in the competition. Multiply Titans openers Aiden Markram and Henry Davids both enjoyed very successful campaigns and ended in 2nd and 3rd place on the Momentum rankings respectively.

Smuts (169.616), finished 36.053 points ahead of 2nd placed Colin Ackermann, and 41.794 points ahead of 3rd placed Hardus Viljoen in the CSA T20 Challenge Rankings. Smuts finished as the leading run-scorer in the competition scoring 371 runs in 11 matches.

“I’d like to congratulate Colin on winning the overall SACA MVP,” said SACA chief executive, Tony Irish. “To achieve the top spot a player has to perform for his franchise pretty much week in and week out throughout the season and he has done exactly that.”

“I would also like to congratulate Jon-Jon and Duanne for leading the way in each of the domestic competitions. There were some pretty impressive individual performances from a number of players this season. Henry Davids’ 673 runs (8 matches) in the Momentum One-Day Cup and Duanne Olivier’s 52 wickets (8 matches) in the Sunfoil Series deserve special mention. Well done also to the entire Titans squad for winning the Momentum One-Day Cup and the CSA T20 Challenge and to the Knights squad for taking the Sunfoil Series.”

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WORLD PLAYERS ASSOCIATION UNVEILS STRATEGY

UNI World Athletes, which brings together 85,000 players across professional sport through more than 100 player associations in over 60 countries, has today unveiled its new strategic vision – #WorldPlayersUnited – to ensure the voice of the player is heeded in the running of sport.

The new vision sees UNI World Athletes become the World Players Association. #WorldPlayersUnited involves placing the voice of the players at the centre of world sport’s decision-making through a powerful strategic focus on three pillars:

I. Voice
Build the voice of the players and the power of the player association movement

II. Dignity
Embed the fundamental rights of the players in world sport

III. Humanity
Work to embed the human rights of everyone involved in the delivery of sport, included affected groups such as workers, local communities, journalists and fans.

“#WorldPlayersUnited introduces the organised and highly respected voice of the players and their organisations to the leadership of world sport,” World Players Executive Director Brendan Schwab said. “In so doing, it envisages a future world of sport that is very different to the one that exists today.”

“Our vision is to champion the dignity of the player and the humanity of sport.”

“We have a three-part goal in the pursuit of this vision. First, the human rights of everyone involved in the delivery of sport must be protected, respected and fulfilled. Second, the same must be true for the players. And, third, the impact of sport must be positive, including in sporting, economic, environmental and cultural terms.”

“The attainment of this goal in full is necessary if sport is to retain its social licence. The future world of sport will therefore be underpinned by adherence to universal principles and international law.”

World Players President Don Fehr, the Executive Director of the National Hockey League Players Association said, “The purpose of World Players is to ensure that the players across sports who have common interests get together and play their role so that the key decisions in world sport that affect them are no longer made without their agreement.”

“As a guiding principle, we hold that all players should be free to negotiate the terms upon which they are involved in world sport, and to be represented by persons and organisations of their choice.”

“The players are very concerned about human rights, very concerned about labour rights and recognise that neither means very much without a prompt and effective remedy.”

World Players Vice President Theo van Seggelen, the Secretary General of FIFPro, the world football players’ union, said, “The world’s footballers are united with players across sport to ensure the rights of all players are respected and that international sport is governed free of corruption, cheating and the abuse of human rights. We will act across the world with solidarity. Players who are members of a player association in one country or sport can rely on the support of World Players and our affiliated player associations.”

The World Players Association is a sector of UNI Global Union. Its General Secretary Philip Jennings, who has been instrumental in the development of World Players, praised the new strategy.

“It is incredibly important to see the players of the world organise around both their rights and the rights of everyone involved in sport. The rate of player unionisation is increasing dramatically around the world for both men and women. Everyone involved in sport needs decent work and a fair wage, be they players, construction workers preparing for Mega-Sporting Events or workers involved in sports’ supply chains.”

Major player associations affiliated to World Players include
• FIFPro, the world football players’ union
• the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA)
• the International Rugby Players’ Association (IRPA)
• the European Elite Athletes’ Association (EU Athletes)
• the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA)
• the National Hockey League Players Association (NHLPA)
• the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA)
• the Japanese Professional Baseball Players Association (JPBPA)
• the Australian Athletes’ Alliance (AAA)

World Players Executive Committee

• Don Fehr (Canada), the Executive Director of the NHLPA (President)
• Theo van Seggelen (The Netherlands), the Secretary General of FIFPro (First Vice President)
• Jeff Reymond (France), the General Secretary of EU Athletes (Vice President)
• Omar Hassanein (Ireland), IRPA Board member and CEO of the Irish Rugby Union Players Association
• Tony Irish (South Africa), FICA Executive Chairman and CEO of the South African Cricketers’ Association
• Paul Marsh (Australia), AAA Board member and Australian Football League Players Association CEO
• DeMaurice Smith (United States), the Executive Director of the NFLPA
• Dejan Stefanovic (Slovenia), FIFPro Board member and president of the Slovenian footballers and athletes union
• Frederique Winia (The Netherlands), the Director of International Relations of FIFPro
• Takuya Yamazaki (Japan), Legal Counsel and Board member of the JPBPA
• Philip Jennings, the General Secretary of the UNI Global Union (ex officio)

World Players Executive Director
Brendan Schwab

UNI Global Union
The World Players Association was formally established in December 2014 as an autonomous sector of UNI Global Union (UNI). It has been known as UNI World Athletes until today’s announcement.
Based in Nyon, Switzerland, UNI represents more than 20 million workers from over 900 trade unions in the fastest growing sectors in the world – skills and services, including media and sport. UNI and its affiliates in all regions are driven by the responsibility to ensure jobs are decent and workers’ rights are protected, including the right to join a union and collective bargaining.

To arrange an interview with Brendan Schwab or for more information please contact: Richard Elliott, Director of Communications UNI Global Union, richard.elliott@uniglobalunion.org +41 79 794 9709

@WorldPlayersUtd ¦ @uniglobalunion ¦ @BrendanSchwab
www.uniglobalunion.org/sectors/worldplayers

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Vikram Solanki Appointed FICA President

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today announced the appointment of former England international, Vikram Solanki as FICA President. Solanki represented England on more than 50 occasions between 2000 and 2007 and amassed almost 30,000 first class and List A runs during his professional career. He holds a law degree, is a current assistant coach of Surrey County Cricket Club and is a former Chairman of the Professional Cricketers’ Association (UK). Solanki replaces Jimmy Adams as FICA President.

Commenting on his appointment, Solanki said:

“I am privileged to accept the position as FICA President and look forward to having a hands on contribution to the organisation and to the player cause around the world. It is an important time for cricket, for FICA and for the players it represents.”

“I am excited to have the opportunity to be a part of ensuring that the players’ voices are heard and that they are involved in shaping the future of the global game.”

Solanki replaces outgoing, long-serving FICA President and former West Indies captain, Jimmy Adams who has taken up the role of Director of Cricket at the West Indies Cricket Board.

Commenting on his departure, Adams said:

“It has been an honour to be a part of FICA over a number of years. I am proud of the work FICA does and the direction it is going. It is critical that players have a global voice and FICA will continue to be that voice in the future.”

FICA Executive Chairman, Tony Irish said:

“The FICA Board wishes Jimmy Adams all the best in his new role and thanks him for the significant contribution he has made to FICA during his tenure.”

“We are happy to have secured Vikram Solanki as our new President. Vikram’s background as both an international player and as a player advocate will be a big asset to FICA. His appointment will complement the appointments of Lisa Sthalekar and Graeme Smith as Independent Board Members in 2016, ensuring we have an experienced Board which oversees our representation of players around the world.”

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FICA RESPONDS TO PCB STATEMENT REGARDING PSL FINAL IN LAHORE

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today responded to a statement issued by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in which the PCB criticised FICA for its alleged “careless and cavalier approach” to security issues relating to the playing of the PSL final in Lahore, and stated that FICA has done great disservice to the cause of cricket in general and to Pakistan cricket.

FICA relies on advice given by expert security consultants, Eastern Star International (ESI), in relation to security risks to players and teams who may contemplate playing in what may be considered high-risk cricket environments. ESI are highly credible specialist security consultants with many years of experience working in cricket. ESI has supplied security services over several years to a number of cricket boards and international teams around the world and to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

FICA has gone through a similar process to that followed in previous years relating to players playing cricket in Pakistan. It obtained advice from ESI related to security risks to cricketers playing in the PSL final in Lahore.

FICA sent a confidential memorandum to players’ associations and to affiliated cricketers, and their agents, highlighting the advice received from ESI relating to the elevated security risk for them of playing in Pakistan. The elevated risk is in line with advice from government agencies and diplomatic missions of several countries regarding travel by foreigners to Pakistan.

FICA recognises that players play in T20 leagues around the world as individuals and that players make individual choices relating to whether or not they wish to participate in a league or match. FICA’s memorandum to players and player agents accordingly did not advise players not to participate in the PSL final in Lahore, but informed players that they do so at their own risk and that players should check any insurance cover that may apply.

Since the 2009 terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore Pakistan has played bi-lateral home series matches against ICC full member countries in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for security reasons. The only full member men’s team to tour Pakistan in this time was Zimbabwe in 2015. The ICC declined to send its match officials to Pakistan to officiate in this series for security reasons. A suicide bomber detonated an explosive device outside the stadium in Lahore shortly before the 2nd ODI of the series, killing himself and a policeman.

The PCB is staging all PSL matches, except the planned final in Lahore, in the UAE for security reasons. Several months ago the PCB consulted FICA in relation to provisions of the standard player contract for the PSL. When FICA expressed possible security concerns relating to playing the final in Lahore the PCB was not responsive to FICA on this issue.

“Players around the world from affiliated countries have always looked to FICA to provide them with information relating to security risks of playing in various parts of the world”, said Tony Irish, FICA’s Executive Chairman. “It is our responsibility to provide this information, which we obtain from highly credible security experts, so that players can make informed decisions.”

“We have great sympathy for fans and players in Pakistan who have not been able to consistently watch international teams and high quality foreign players playing cricket in their country for several years. FICA has no vested interest in this matter and is completely independent of the PSL. We consider the PSL a good opportunity for players and we would like to see it succeed. However the safety and security of players is, and will continue to be, a high priority matter for FICA.”

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NO RESOLUTION OF COBRAS PLAYERS AND COACH DISPUTE

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) today confirmed that the Cape Cobras players’ dispute relating to their grievance against the Cape Cobras coach, Paul Adams, has not been resolved.

The players, SACA and the Franchise had agreed at the conciliation meeting held at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) on 18 October 2016 to a fourteen (14) day extension period to give them a further opportunity to resolve the issues around the coach.

“SACA and the players are disappointed by the Franchise’s response to our proposals on a process which we believe would have resolved the matter once and for all”, said Tony Irish, chief executive of SACA. “We had proposed a process for an independent cricket person to monitor and assess the coach’s situation on the ground within the team over a three (3) week period and thereafter to make a recommendation as to what should happen with the coaching situation. His recommendation would be accepted by all, and binding on the players, SACA and the Franchise, and it would dispose of the current dispute”, said Irish. “The Franchise has however rejected the proposal out of hand without proposing any alternative, despite having indicated to us that they were in favour of some form of monitoring.”

“It is very obvious that the Franchise team is in disarray and the Cobras are currently rooted to the bottom of the Sunfoil Series log. In addition Alan Dawson, brought in as the convenor of selectors in an to attempt to beef up the structures around the coach, has now resigned citing that he believes it is impossible to work in an environment in which there is a fundamental problem between players and coach. The most frustrating aspect is that it appears that the board of the Franchise simply refuses to acknowledge that there is actually a problem at all, despite everything that has happened, and is now happening, around it”, said Irish.

SACA will seek a certificate of outcome from the CCMA confirming that the dispute has not been resolved. The issuing of this certificate will enable players to embark on lawful and protected industrial action (such as a strike), following proper notice to be given, should the players elect to go this route.”

“Any kind of industrial action is always a very last resort for players and we hope it doesn’t come to that”, said Irish. “However the players have been asking the Franchise to properly address this issue for many months, but to no avail, and have exhausted every constructive process available to them with the Franchise. We will now seek CSA’s assistance and intervention before considering what further steps to take.”

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LISA STHALEKAR & GRAEME SMITH JOIN FICA BOARD

 

Former international captains Lisa Sthalekar and Graeme Smith were appointed as Independent Board Members of the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) at the FICA annual meeting held in Cape Town between 10-12 October.

The meeting covered a wide range of issues that are important to players and the game globally. The meeting was attended by FICA president and former West Indies player Jimmy Adams, former Australian and South African captains Lisa Sthalekar and Graeme Smith, FICA Board Members and Head of UniWorld Athletes Brendan Schwab.

International Cricket Structure

The Board held lengthy discussions on the significant issues around the structure of international cricket. The discussions were guided by FICA’s 2016 International Cricket Structural Review, player insights, player surveys and FICA’s ongoing dialogue with the ICC and the ICC Member Boards.

It was resolved that FICA will continue to play an active role in discussions at all levels, with the objective of ensuring that the games’ governing bodies deliver a better structure that is fit for purpose, acknowledges the changing landscape of professional cricket and allows players’ career self-determination, giving them the opportunity to represent both club and country around the world.

Commenting on the structure of international cricket, Graeme Smith said: “players around the world are trying to build successful careers in a game that is rapidly changing. It is our role to ensure that players’ interests are protected, that players are a part of guiding the direction of the game and ensuring that structures and schedules are as good as they can be.”

Player Associations

The Board agreed that FICA should assist, guide and lead the development of associate country players setting up new associations in their countries.

In addition, it was agreed that FICA would, as a matter of priority, look to assist the Indian professional cricketers to develop their association, as recommended by the Lodha Committee and mandated by the Indian Supreme Court. FICA will explore all relevant avenues open to it to assist and to make a valuable contribution in this process, which it believes will be a positive for the players in India and for the game in India and globally. 

Women’s Cricket and FICA

Following the decision taken at the 2015 FICA annual meeting that both male and female players should be represented, the Board welcomed the appointment of Lisa Sthalekar as an Independent Board Member.

Commenting on her appointment, Lisa Sthalekar said: “I am delighted to be appointed to the FICA Board, and am looking forward to playing an active role around the FICA Board table. Women’s cricket is the fastest growing part of the game and ensuring all players are represented globally will be a huge positive for players and the game.”

Employment Rights

The Board discussed a number of cases of systematic non-payment of players and the shortcomings within the international contract structure. It was highlighted that the potential exists for this system to get worse. The Board mandated continued efforts to protect players fundamental employment rights.

In addition, the Board resolved to ensure that any unreasonable labour market restrictions are not imposed on players, and that artificial restrictions on player movement should not be viewed as a quick-fix solution for structural imbalances in the game.

Player Welfare and Integrity

The Board received two presentations from key players’ association staff on the twin issues of player welfare, wellbeing and career transition and anti-corruption and integrity.

The Board agreed that it is vital that players’ associations, both individually and collectively play a formal role in all areas of player welfare and integrity issues.

Specifically, FICA urges the ICC and ICC Member Boards to formally agree to partner with player collective representatives in the fight against corruption.

Commenting on the outcomes of the meeting, Tony Irish, FICA Executive Chairman said: “the FICA Board has endorsed our operational direction and has mandated our Executive to continue to make a significant, evidence based, considered and professional contribution for players in the game. FICA will continue our efforts to build relationships around the world with the ICC, Member Boards, MCC, league owners and other key stakeholders in the game to ensure that the global cricketers’ voice is heard.”

 

 

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CAPE COBRAS PLAYERS GRIEVANCE REFERRED TO THE CCMA

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) confirmed today that it has referred the Cape Cobras players’ grievance to the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

“The players have exhausted the internal cricket process for dealing with their grievance and now have no option but to refer this to the CCMA”, said SACA chief executive, Tony Irish. “It is the only way that they can deal with it further and keep shining a light on the issue with the franchise. They are not able to seek a binding order from the CCMA but are able to have the grievance conciliated in that forum.”

The grievance relates to a breakdown in the relationship between the majority of the Cobras players and the head coach, Paul Adams. It involves a fundamental loss of confidence by the players in the coach’s ability to lead the coaching of the team arising from his inability to create an effective team culture, poor communication and man management skills, lack of tactical and technical knowledge and disorganisation in running proper practice and training sessions.

“Some people have been quick to point out that the team won trophies under the coach in the period after he took over” said Irish. “According to the players however the coach’s shortcomings back then were compensated for by the role played by senior players at the time and the situation has got progressively worse. It in fact deteriorated to such a point last season that in December 2015 the franchise itself surveyed the players on the issue and the outcome of several of these highlighted the seriousness of the breakdown. The problem wasn’t however addressed by the franchise and in May 2016, when the players heard that the franchise was planning to renew the coach’s contract, 10 out of 17 contracted players most of whom are senior players, raised a formal grievance and thereafter sought the players’ association’s assistance in dealing with it. We also know that players outside of the 10 sympathise with the grievance although have not put their names to it.”

“There is a quick and simple process in cricket for dealing with player grievances, but this was delayed by the franchise and it has now taken more than four months to process this grievance. In the recent mediation process the independent mediator, Paddy Upton, who was nominated by the franchise itself and is an internationally recognised expert on coaching and team dynamics, made a clear recommendation to the parties that the coach should stand down from the team, and be re-deployed in a different capacity if possible. Despite this however, the board of the franchise proceeded to confirm the coach’s re-appointment and stated that Upton’s report was deficient. We and the players concerned strongly disagree with this suggestion of the report’s deficiency. Upton was brought in to get an understanding of the grievance and to assist in resolving it, and he was specifically empowered to use whatever approach he deemed appropriate in doing so. He looked at the documentation, including the surveys, interviewed the individuals he considered relevant and produced a thorough report with a clear recommendation to the parties.”

“The players care about the Cobras team and its ability to perform going forward,” concluded Irish. “They are however extremely frustrated by the way their very legitimate concerns, which were clearly evident over nine months ago, have been dealt with and the length of time it has taken. They want the franchise to address the issue further.”

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FICA RESPONDS TO ICC COMMENTS ON WORKSHOP ON BILATERAL INTERNATIONAL CRICKET

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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FICA URGES ICC TO DELIVER CLEAR & COMPELLING FUTURE

Following completion of FICA’s annual player survey, and ahead of further discussions at ICC level on the structure of international cricket, the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today urged the ICC to deliver a clear and compelling future for international cricket, which includes meaningful change to competition structures. FICA is supportive of improving, and adding context to all three formats of international cricket, ensuring a structure that delivers better clarity and balance between the formats, and one that will address the continued decline in popularity of much of international cricket. Cricket needs a new international structure now to allow it to survive and thrive in the future.

“It is clear that there is a ground swell of opinion around the world that the current structure of international cricket is not serving the game globally, and that the status quo is not good enough for the long term future success of cricket” Tony Irish, FICA Executive Chairman said.

“We have been involved in the ongoing discussions on the structure of the game, on behalf of players, and there is no doubt that the game’s stakeholders have a unique opportunity to be bold and to provide a compelling future for the international game. The entire cricket economy, including all professional players, both international and domestic, is highly dependent on international cricket. To ensure its survival the game needs to evolve. It has many strengths and its rich history must be protected, but it is time to significantly move the game forward. That is not an easy task, but thinking globally, and not based on regional or country interests, is a good place to start” Irish continued.

“To date, the issue that has been talked about most is Test cricket, but we believe that this review is about creating clear visions for all three formats of international cricket, and balancing them alongside the continued expansion and success of the various domestic T20 cricket leagues. We know from our player surveys, and our engagement with players, that they are facing a conflict between international cricket and domestic T20 cricket leagues. This is a fundamental issue that we want any future structure of the game to address. Our concern is that if nothing is done, international cricket may very soon lose more and more of its best players to free agency and the T20 leagues.”

“This re-structuring of international cricket should be about providing a better sporting product for fans, players and broadcasters. ICC management has done some excellent work on this, and we strongly encourage Member Boards to look beyond their own individual country interests in taking this forward. We understand that not everyone is in agreement over the divisional Test structure currently proposed, but this should not derail the entire process. We urge the game to thoroughly explore all potential options to create a coherent new structure that adds more context and meaning to all matches. It is time for global, collective thinking.”

World Player Views
• AB de Villiers, South Africa: “We have already raised our intensity and urgency just knowing that a Test league might happen. There is nothing like the pressure and adrenaline that comes with knowing you need to win matches. It’s time for all international matches to have more meaning.”
• Jason Holder, West Indies: “Creating windows (for domestic T20 tournaments) would make the whole situation a lot easier as players would not be forced to choose. If players could play both domestic T20 and international cricket, it would definitely help to keep players in international cricket.”
• Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh: “It would be a great thing for Bangladesh to play more regular international cricket. I have been playing for 10 years and have only played 42 Tests. If I was from India or England I would have had the opportunity to play double that amount.”
• Steve Smith, Australia: ”We want our best players to be on the park as much as possible playing for our countries, and at the moment that isn’t always happening. Players should absolutely have a say in the future of the game. We are the ones out there doing the job, we have a close up view of what’s happening in the game, and it is important we are involved in decision making.”
• Ross Taylor, New Zealand: “We need to find ways of keeping our players. To survive as a cricket nation, we need our top players playing for New Zealand and not retiring early.”

Additional Player Data

FICA has recently conducted its 2016 player survey of 193 current professional players from all seven FICA affiliated countries, including 111 international players. Notable, selected results relevant to the structure of cricket include:
• Despite overwhelmingly indicating that Test cricket is the most important format to play in, more than 52% of all international respondents in the current structure still indicated that they would consider rejecting a national contract in favour of free agency in domestic T20 leagues;
• 70% of all respondents think there should be “ring fenced” windows in the calendar for certain domestic T20 events to prevent clashes with international cricket;
• 75% of all respondents think that closing the wage gap between domestic T20 and international cricket would help to retain players in international cricket;
• 72% of all respondents would support the introduction of a divisional Test competition to add more meaning to each match;
• 75% of all respondents would support the introduction of a Test match final/play off match.

FICA International Cricket Structural Review
FICA released its International Cricket Structural Review earlier this year, in which FICA encouraged the ICC and Member Boards to focus on the following key issues in the ongoing discussions:

1. Global thinking: for the good of the global game;

2. Balancing the three formats better and working together with domestic T20: introducing windows for T20 leagues where possible;

3. International cricket should be “best v best”: players should not be forced to choose between club and country, and scheduling between formats should generally not conflict;

4. All International cricket needs context and it needs to be competitive: new competition structures with context, based on merit, should enable this;

5. Providing clarity in the calendar and fair protections for players: in regulations and contract structures;

6. Retaining talent in the international game by redistributing money more equitably to help close player wage gaps between domestic T20 and international cricket: this does not mean players from top earning countries should be paid less. Players from all countries should be paid fairly

7. Clear pathways for associate countries, based on merit

FICA’s full International Cricket Structural Review can be found at: http://www.thefica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/L-FICA-International-Cricket-Structural-Review-2016-single-page.pdf

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SACA STATEMENT ON CSA CORRUPTION FINDINGS

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) today responded to the Cricket South Africa (CSA) findings in its anti-corruption investigation.
“It will always be a sad day for the sport when players are found to have been involved in corruption”, said SACA chief executive Tony Irish.

“It’s important that where players are found to be guilty under the anti-corruption code that they are then appropriately punished and that the message goes out that cricket will not tolerate any form of corruption. In this regard I would like to commend the CSA investigators for conducting a thorough and professional investigation to date which has resulted in these severe punishments for guilty players.”
“Despite the shadow this casts over the game I think it’s also important to emphasise a few positives in all this. South African cricket has shown that it has measures in place to detect and uncover corruption, properly investigate it and then follow through with prosecution against those who are guilty. Players are properly educated, there is a highly competent anti-corruption unit and there’s a zero tolerance towards corruption.”
“Corruption is however a worldwide issue in cricket and needs to be fought everywhere and at every level. Because it has now been shown to exist in domestic competitions there needs to be a co-ordinated and concerted effort in every country. The players are at the heart of this fight and it’s virtually impossible to successfully defeat corruption unless players are prepared to come forward and help with that fight.

Fortunately this is what has happened in South Africa and I commend those players who came forward to report and to assist with this investigation. The vast majority of our cricketers in South Africa are clean and play the game hard and fair. Although players are obliged under the provisions of the code to report corrupt activity to the authorities it still takes a lot of courage for a player to actually do this.”
“SACA will continue to work with the players and with CSA to protect the integrity of the game.”

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MASTERS CHAMPION LEAGUE FAILS TO HONOUR PLAYER CONTRACTS IN FULL

 

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.

 

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FICA COMMENT ON WITHDRAWAL OF DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS AGAINST PERERA

FICA Executive Chairman Tony Irish today made comment following the withdrawal of disciplinary proceedings against Kusal Perera under the ICC anti-doping code, after the WADA-accredited laboratory in Qatar withdrew its original Adverse Analytical Finding.

“We are pleased that the right result has been achieved and welcome the decision, however, this case brings to light several issues in regard to anti-doping regulation in cricket” Irish said.

“The damaging impact of the error on Kusal’s career is not to be underestimated. He has been removed from the game for a significant period of time in the middle of a developing career, for reasons which have been found to be unjustifiable.”

“The case highlights many of the pre-existing concerns held by FICA and athlete representatives around the world around the inflexibility and unfairness of the WADA code, the requirement for sports to be compliant and its appropriateness for sophisticated team sports such as cricket. We have voiced these concerns to the ICC over the past year, and will seek to discuss this further.” Irish continued

“The concerns raised have included the view that the WADA program is ineffective in safeguarding the interests of clean athletes and is open to penalties being imposed on players who are not ‘cheats’.”

Irish went on to say, “FICA is supportive of fair, proportionate and appropriate measures to ensure that cricket is a clean sport. However, the game must ensure that any measures are effective and tailored to the game of cricket.”

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PLAYERS VOICE THEIR CONCERNS OVER DAY-NIGHT TEST MATCH

AB de Villiers, South Africa’s Test captain, has voiced concerns over the day-night match in Adelaide and has suggested that a few Australia players may also be reluctant to go ahead with the game.

The third Test of the series between Australia and South Africa has been allotted to Adelaide between November 24 and 28, according to the 2016-17 summer fixtures released by Cricket Australia, but there is no confirmation yet on whether this will be a day-night game. With the possibility of a No. 1 Test ranking at stake in the match, de Villiers said that that a day-night game could be “fundamental change” to the itinerary.

“At the moment, we are not too keen on playing in the proposed day-night Test match due to a few concerns that have come from a number of sources involved in the maiden Test played last year,” he told Independent Media. “We had a meeting with Steven Smith and some of the Australian players when they toured here earlier this year, and the consensus from our talks were that there are just too many unknowns. Players from both teams were reluctant to go ahead with it.

“South Africa and Australia have a great cricketing rivalry, and this is a series that we value. We could well be playing for an opportunity to regain the No.1 Test ranking, so playing a day-night match is a fundamental change to the itinerary.

The first ever day-night Test, between Australia and New Zealand in Adelaide last year, was dominated by quick bowlers and ended in three days with a three-wicket win for the hosts. De Villiers raised doubts about the durability of the pink-ball used in the format, and said that alterations to the pitch, to reduce wear and tear on the ball, were also a significant factor.

“The pink ball has had some issues with how it responds to 80 overs of Test cricket and that is one of the key issues that we feel plays a big role in the success of the day-night Test,” De Villiers said. “The pitch also had to be ‘doctored’ to minimise the abrasive wear and tear to the pink ball, which seems to happen quicker than the red ball, and this is also an area we feel is a big factor in the run of play.”

De Villiers did not believe that a practice match could help his side adjust to the pink ball: “I don’t think it (warm-up game) will. I don’t think it’s something that you acclimatize to in one match and the intensity of an international cricket match also brings in other factors which are hard to replicate in a warm-up match.”

South Africa fast-bowler Dale Steyn, meanwhile, said he is keen to play a day-night Test in his career. “I don’t want to go through my whole career without playing a day-night game,” Steyn told cricket.com.au in Rajkot where he is playing the IPL . “How cool are they? I thought it looked awesome when New Zealand and Australia played one. It looked entertaining, there was a big crowd. The ball is pink – it’s something different. You want to test your skills with that whole thing and it’s very exciting.”

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SACA CONGRATULATES DOMESTIC MVP WINNER DWAINE PRETORIUS

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) today congratulated Bizhub Highveld Lions all-rounder, Dwaine Pretorius, on winning its Most Valuable Player (MVP) title for his performances over the three domestic competitions in the 2015/16 season.  Pretorius finished on a total of 468, 282 points.

The SACA MVP is a cumulative points system that rewards franchise players for every run scored, wicket taken and catch held in the three franchise domestic competitions, and also takes into account the context of the match and in which the performances are achieved. Each of the CSA domestic competitions has a unique weighting for each discipline, dependant on what is considered more important in that format (for example strike rate and economy rate in the T20 format).

Following his remarkable start to the season, Pretorius’ hard work with bat and ball earned the Lion’s all-rounder a total of 641 runs and 60 wickets in all competitions. Despite picking up an injury half way through the season, Pretorius was a strong contender for the top spot throughout, and in the end, he took the overall MVP title, 31.929 points ahead of Sunfoil Dolphins left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj who finished second.

“The SACA MVP is something all of us franchise cricketers strive to win because it combines what you do with bat, ball and in the field in all three competitions.  It is recognised by players as a measure of consistency throughout the season.  I’m proud to have won this but must also give some credit to my Lions teammates in helping me to do it” said Dwaine Pretorius.

The SACA MVP rankings also focus on performances in each particular competition.  Bizhub Highveld Lions paceman, Hardus Viljoen clinched the top spot in the four day Sunfoil Series MVP rankings from team mate Pretorius, doing so in the Lions final match against the Warriors. Viljoen’s performance kept him in the running for the title as he held his position at the top of the ranking for five of the nine Sunfoil Series matches he played.  He finished the Sunfoil Series as the top wicket-taker with 47 wickets.

Alviro Petersen was a runaway winner of the Momentum One-Day Cup MVP award after a record-breaking season in which he scored 726 runs, an astonishing 31% of all his teams runs. His remarkable total included five centuries, four in consecutive matches, and was compiled at an equally remarkable strike rate of 100.13 runs per hundred balls. His was the outstanding contribution in the Lions’ successful Momentum One Day Cup campaign.

The Unlimited Titans T20 captain, Albie Morkel, started the RamSlam T20 with a bang and stayed within touching distance of the top spot throughout the tournament. Morkel’s steady flow of runs and wickets, as well as his captaining proficiency, saw him edge out the VKB Knights international star, Andre Russell, by just 0.92 points.

“I’d like to congratulation Dwaine on winning the overall SACA MVP,” said SACA chief executive, Tony Irish.  “To achieve the top spot a player has to perform for his franchise pretty much week in and week out throughout the season.”

“I would also like to congratulate Hardus, Alviro and Albie for leading the way in each of the domestic competitions.  There were some pretty impressive individual performances from a number of players this season and I think Heino Kuhn’s 1126 runs in the Sunfoil Series and Alviro Petersen’s five hundreds in the Momentum One Day Cup deserve special mention.  Well done also to the entire Titans squad for winning the Sunfoil Series and the RamSlam and to the Lions Squad for taking the Momentum One Day Cup.”

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FICA RESPONDS TO THE OUTCOMES OF ICC BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS

 The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today responded to the outcomes of the recent ICC Board and Committee meetings which took place in Dubai from 1st to 3rd February 2016.

 

Governance

 

“We are encouraged by what appears to be a new direction coming from the ICC,” said Tony Irish, FICA’s Executive Chairman.  “The announcement of a review of its constitution and governance structures with the stated intention that it wishes to avoid potential conflicts of interest and follow best practice principles of good governance has to be a step in the right direction.  We hope that this will translate into the ICC prioritising the long-term global interests of the game ahead of the immediate interests of its most powerful members.  We note and support Mr Manohar’s statement that no member of the ICC is bigger than any other.”

 

These sentiments are in line with FICA’s guiding principles, published in March 2015*, which advocate for universally accepted principles of good governance.  These include:

 

  • High quality, innovative and strategic leadership
  • Independent directors with democratic, equal voting rights for all
  • Clear and transparent structures, decision-making processes and financial reporting
  • Meaningful representation for the game’s stakeholders, including the players, in all relevant decision-making processes
  • A considered, meaningful and published global development strategy for the game

 

“Decisions made in February 2014 which effectively promoted the interests of three countries were fundamentally wrong for the global game and it now seems to us that the new leadership at the ICC is prepared to revisit some of this.  Good decision making across the game will flow from a meritocratic governance structure” Irish continued.

 

Structure of Cricket

 

“FICA also welcomes the ICC’s move to seriously address the future structure and scheduling of international and domestic cricket, and to build a clearer global cricket calendar with greater context.  As the world players’ federation we have advocated for this review for some time and we note the ICC’s comments that its process will include player representatives.  We believe players should be integrally involved in building a better and clearer global cricketing market” Irish said.

 

In the wake of the Lodha Committee recommendations last month, including the recommendation for the formation of an Indian Players’ Association, FICA hopes that players from all countries will be empowered to be central to decision making regarding the structure of the game.

 

“The game is currently faced with choices.  Players, fans and broadcasters are all faced with choice as to where and what formats they play, what they invest in and what they watch.  The global cricket economy has changed, and the labour market has changed for players” Irish continued.

 

Former South African captain and FICA player advisor, Graeme Smith added that “there is a conflict within players around the world under the current structure.  The game has a great opportunity to provide clear global direction in relation to its structure, and must find a way to give meaning to each game.  Every match must matter.”

 

FICA’s principles promote a clear and consistent position within the cricketing calendar for all current and future recognised leagues and competitions, especially domestic T20 leagues.  This necessitates clarity and consistency in delivery, administration and regulation.  FICA believes the international cricket structure should not be governed entirely by short-term financial considerations and must take into account the volume and context of cricket, player workload and a balance of the formats of the game.  Critically, it must also have a structure that provides clear sporting narrative to players and the cricket public.

 

FICA President, and former West Indian cricketer, Jimmy Adams said that “players must be viewed not just as the means of production, but as key stakeholders in the game’s decision-making processes.”

 

Integrity

 

FICA also welcomes the appointment of an anti-corruption oversight group designed to have independent input into tackling corruption, as a further positive step.  “FICA advocates for proportionate, reasonable and effective anti-corruption measures agreed in consultation with the stakeholders to whom they apply, and applicable to players and officials alike.  Defence against threats posed by corruption are best achieved by engaging, educating and empowering all stakeholders, including the players” Irish said.

 

Health, Safety and Security

 

Following the release of the FICA Health, Safety and Security report in 2015, FICA continues to advocate for the game to have structured and agreed processes in relation to health, safety and security at a global level, to ensure that players and officials are provided with a world class working environment.

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FICA URGES THE GAME TO BUILD ON ADELAIDE TEST MATCH PINK BALL EXPERIMENT

Following the inaugural day/night Test Match in Adelaide last week, FICA Executive Chairman, Tony Irish today made comment after consultation with players and conducting a player survey following the Test Match.

“It was good to see so many fans at the Adelaide Test Match and it was successful as an event, however, the pink ball experiment must be part of a bigger picture, and it alone is not the answer to making Test cricket the best it can be.” Irish said.

“Adelaide has historically been a well supported Test Match, and a social event. Players enjoy playing in front of big crowds, and it was a terrific atmosphere. What we saw in Adelaide is one aspect of a significant amount of work that needs to go into making the entire game compelling for spectators, players, and commercial partners. The structure of bilateral cricket, and of the game itself need to be addressed globally.”

“As representative body of players from 7 of the 10 test playing nations, FICA commends the players for their adaptability with a significant change to the game. We also recognise the amount of work that went into this game. FICA is supportive of innovations that can improve the spectacle and spectator interest, whilst maintaining the essence of the sport.” Irish continued.

“It is important to note however, that the change from the red to pink ball is significant. The players still have concerns around the ball itself, and one must take into account that the Adelaide Oval conditions were tailored to suit the pink ball and help it last. This led to results that were uncharacteristic for an Adelaide Test Match. Furthermore, questions also remain as to the suitability of day/night Test Matches in other parts of the world, where conditions are not as favourable as in Adelaide.”

In a post match player survey of twenty (20) players who played in the Match, some of the key results were:

  •        The pink ball did not show similar signs of wear and tear to the red ball (80%);
  •       The pink ball swung more than the red ball (80%), especially at night;
  •       The ball was not easy to see when batting or fielding at dusk (70%), and to a lesser extent at night (50%);
  •       The day/night conditions affected the length of the match (85%);
  •       Those who played were generally supportive of experimenting with day/night Test matches, but were strongly of the view that the ball still requires improvement.

“In trialling day/night Test matches, we are essentially adding another new format to the international cricket structure which already lacks clear and common direction as to the best interplay between formats, and the best way for players to balance the growing conflict in club versus country commitments.” Irish said.

“We know players value playing for their countries, and playing in events that have meaning and context. We also know how much they value the essence of Test cricket. With the advent of domestic T20 tournaments around the world, there is also now a growing alternative market to international cricket for the worlds best players.” Irish continued.

“The game must address its structure as a whole, and the players should be an integral part of planning and improving it in its entirety moving forward.”

“Cricket will be in the best position to grow if players are properly embraced as partners in the game.”

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CHAIRMEN OF FICA AND ICC MEET

The Executive Chairman of the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA), Tony Irish, met with the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), Narayanaswami Srinivasan, in London on Wednesday.  The meeting was also attended by the ICC Chief Executive, David Richardson.

 “We see high level engagement between FICA and ICC as important”, said Irish, “Our meeting will hopefully be the start of constructive dialogue with the ICC on various player related issues.”

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FICA LAUDS WIPA WICB AGREEMENT

The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) today lauded the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) and the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) on the signing of their collective bargaining agreement on Thursday.

“Collective bargaining agreements such as this, which bring security and consistency to player arrangements, are critical in dealing with the growing challenge of player free agency”, said FICA Executive Chairman, Tony Irish.

“More and more we are going to see the risks of players considering prioritisation of participation in T20 Leagues ahead of playing cricket for their countries. When one understands that the majority of revenue in just about every country is generated by the country’s national team then it becomes easy to also understand why it is so important to ensure that a country retains not only its top players but also the pipeline of players leading to the top.

“One of the most effective ways that a country can do this is to put in place overarching, clear and consistent player arrangements. This arrangements cover player numbers, standard contract provisions, fair conditions for the release of players to play in other events, professional employment benefits, commercial rights provisions and player welfare and education opportunities. Players will in general feel more secure in a properly regulated professional environment than in one where there is no proper regulation.

“WIPA and WICB have had a difficult relationship historically but they should be commended in having now come together to create a more attractive player environment that can only be good for West Indies Cricket,” Irish said

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