CSA slaps DA's 'quotas' claim for six: It's an attempt to gain political mileage

Cricket South Africa came out strongly against the Democratic Alliance's statement on transformation targets, saying the party's portrayal of targets is an attempt to gain political mileage.

South Africa's official opposition party voiced their concerns and disregard about transformation targets this week in a statement as CSA's boys' and girls' youth weeks loom.

The DA complained about the enforcement of targets at the upcoming Under-19 Khaya Majola Week in Makhanda, which runs from 16-21 December.

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The DA didn't zoom in on a particular case but explained how targets are a "discriminatory CSA policy smacks of political influence from the hopeless, soul-destroying ANC government".

CSA said the use of the term "quotas" detracted from the positive impact transformation targets have had on the sport.

"We believe, however, that the DA's portrayal of our initiatives is an attempt to gain political mileage and does not accurately reflect our long-term vision for the sport," the body said in a statement in response to detailed questions from News24.

"Our approach should not be misinterpreted as mere 'quotas'. Instead, these are carefully considered development targets that aim to rectify historical imbalances and nurture a more inclusive and diverse environment within cricket.

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"The purpose is to provide opportunities for young players who may otherwise not be given the chance to prove themselves due to inequalities that may exist in their schools or in their socio-economic backgrounds at home.

"The use of the term 'quota' by the DA is