Discussions continue round ICC contracts

Representatives of The United Cricket Board of South African and The South African Cricketers' Association met today to discuss the player terms issue relating to the ICC Champions Trophy for 2002 and the World Cup for 2003.

The problems arising out of the proposed player terms for these two events were discussed at length and certain fundamental principles relating to a solution were identified. The most important of these principles is the need to take all steps possible to ensure that both the Champions Trophy and The World Cup are not placed at risk and that the event sponsorship arrangements entered into were maintained as far as possible.

The parties have agreed on a framework within which they both believe that the players' rights and interests can be addressed given the existing commitments to event sponsors. This framework includes some involvement from the International Cricket Council.

The parties intend to continue discussions over the next few days with a view to being in a position very shortly to ensure conclusion of the player agreements relating to the Champions Trophy, which commences on 12th September 2002.

Both Gerald Majola, Chief Executive Officer of the UCBSA, and Tony Irish, Chief Executive of SACA, confirmed that the discussions were very constructive and have expressed confidence that the issue is capable of resolution between them with the involvement of the ICC.