David Teeger removed as South Africa captain for ICC U19 World Cup

Cricket South Africa removed David Teeger from captaincy citing security reasons.

The 15th edition of the ICC U-19 World Cup is all set to begin on January 19, 2024. This tournament will be hosted in South Africa and 16 teams will be taking part in it. Five-time champions, India, will defend their title and look to add one more. India are placed in Group A along with Bangladesh, USA and Ireland. The 16 teams have been evenly split into four groups.

Two teams from each group will make it to the next round. South Africa, who won the 2014 edition, will feel confident about winning their second title in home conditions. The hosts are slotted in Group B with England, West Indies and Scotland. However, just a week before the start, the hosts have suffered a big blow.

David Teeger removed as captain of SA U-19 team for upcoming ICC U-19 World Cup

Notably, David Teeger was announced as the captain of the South African team for the upcoming ICC U-19 World Cup. But now, Cricket South Africa (CSA) has removed him from the role. This decision came after the 19-year-old made comments in support of Israeli soldiers in the ongoing conflict with Palestine. Following the comments, it was revealed that CSA were alerted about security concerns for the player. CSA addressed the issue and said it is their prime duty to safeguard everyone who is involved in the tournament.

The board said, “We have also been advised that they are likely to focus on the position of the SA Under-19 captain, David Teeger, and that there is a risk that they could result in conflict or even violence, including between rival groups of protestors.” Hence, David has been released from his role, citing security concerns.

Notably, the second test between India and South Africa at Newlands saw something similar. A group of pro-Palestinian supporters picketed outside the main gate of the stadium. The police then intervened and escorted them. Notably, the 19-year-old dedicated an award to the soldiers in Israel. He won the Rising Star award at the ABSA Jewish Achiever Awards ceremony on October 22, 2023.

In his speech, he said, “I’ve been awarded this award, and yes, I am now the rising star, but the true rising stars are the young soldiers in Israel… So I’d like to dedicate this award to the South African family that married off one son whilst the other is still missing.” His comments went viral and raised many eyebrows. Hence, to keep things under control, CSA decided to remove him from the captaincy.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.