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CSA ups international player quota for T20 Global League

Cricket

Just over a week before the player draft for the inaugural T20 Global League, Cricket South Africa (CSA) has confirmed an increase in international players allowed in the squads of the eight franchises.

Initially four international players were set to be allowed in the squads of the eight franchises, but CSA have now upped the allowance to five. That number will include South African players like Colin Ingram, Kyle Abbott and Rilee Rossouw who are signed to Kolpak contracts, primarily in England.

As a result of the new allowance, the squad sizes will be increased from 17 to 18 players to ensure domestic players aren't prejudiced.

CSA believe, according to their press release, that the increase in players will help in managing the workload of the international players and any possible injuries over the six-week tournament period. Keen observers will note that an ever-increasing number of South African cricketers -- mostly senior pros at their local teams -- play overseas on Kolpak contracts, which has ruled them out of playing on 'local' contracts.

As such, it will be interesting to see how the player draft, set for 26-17 August in Cape Town, will unfold, especially as almost 400 players from 10 countries have confirmed their interest.

In terms of on-field regulations for the inaugural tournament; a minimum of three international players must be selected and a maximum of four will be allowed on the field of play at any one time -- despite the increase to five per squad.

CSA confirmed that the South African Cricketers' Association (SACA) and all franchise owners -- who have been on road shows at their new entities -- have expressed support at the increase in the squad of players.

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