AUS vs SL: South Africa In Danger Of Facing Sanctions During World Cup Due To Non-Compliance Of WADA Code

South Africa‘s cricket team is currently facing severe scrutiny from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) due to non-compliance with anti-doping regulations. The other South African sports are also in a similar spot.

The Proteas team is currently in India for the ongoing World Cup that got underway last week. The Temba Bavuma-led side began its campaign on Saturday (October 7) against Sri Lanka in Delhi. They will be in action next on Thursday (October 12) when they lock horns against Australia in Lucknow.

During the course of the competition, the South African flag’s display could be banned due to the ongoing tussle with WADA. According to WADA’s Executive Committee (ExCo), the South Africa National Anti-Doping Organization (SA NADO) is not in compliance with the WADA 2021 Code. As a result, the flat of the African country will not be flown at any regional, continental, or global competitions, as stated in a WADA press release.

“During its meeting, the ExCo asserted non-compliance of three Anti-Doping Organizations (ADOs) with the World Anti-Doping Code (Code). The two National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOs) in question are Bermuda and South Africa; and the Major Event Organization (MEO) in question is the Pan American Sports Organization (Panam Sports),” a recent WADA statement said.

ICC’s stance over South Africa:

The ICC has found itself in a tough position due to South Africa. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is set to make a decision regarding cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics next week.

And with one of the ICC members being non-compliant with the WADA code, the governing body of cricket could find itself in a tricky situation. The ICC will also be obligated to adhere to WADA’s sanctions during the upcoming World Cup.

According to a report in Cricbuzz, WADA will make a final decision on the matter on October 14. The sanctions will be enforced only after the decision. The consequences, however, could be delayed as South African sports have the right to appeal and they are expected to exercise those rights. The report further stated that the ICC is in communication with WADA regarding this situation and has no immediate concerns until October 14.