Cricket South Africa accused of betraying former captain Elgar

Former South African Test captain Dean Elgar has opened up about the toxic environment of politics and poor administration in South African cricket, revealing that he felt “stabbed in the back” when he was removed from his leadership role last year. Elgar, who is now playing for English county Essex after retiring from international cricket, spoke candidly in an interview with the Rapport newspaper.

Elgar described his time as captain as being more about politics than cricket, saying he felt like a part-time cricketer and full-time politician. He expressed regret at accepting the captaincy, stating that he was thrown into a situation where he had to juggle being a sportsman, politician, and cricket administrator.

The former captain also highlighted the heavy burden placed on him, coach Mark Boucher, and the team management following the resignation of former captain Graeme Smith as director of cricket. Elgar struggled to balance the interests of the team with those of Cricket South Africa’s management, ultimately leading to a decline in his own form.

Elgar expressed disappointment at not being recognized for the hard work and improvements made by the team during his tenure as captain. Despite leading South Africa to series wins against West Indies, India, and Bangladesh, he was replaced by Temba Bavuma without much explanation.

Elgar pointed to head coach Shukri Conrad as the reason for his Test career being cut short, stating that he did not fit into the current South African cricket environment. He expressed contentment with his new cricketing home at Essex, where he has a three-year contract.