Proteas World Cup groundbreakers get money boost as government praises 'self-correcting' CSA

In what, at least on paper, may prove to be a rare shrewd move from government, the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC) have decided to spur the Proteas women's team on to reach new heights, rather than merely paying them a bonus for reaching the final of last month's ICC T20 World Cup on home soil.

Nocawe Mafu, deputising for ill sports minister Zizi Kodwa, on Tuesday announced that the department was instituting a R7.5 million "incentive" for the national team, while also committing R15 million over a three-year period to assist in the development of a professional local league.

There wasn't immediate clarity on whether the "incentive" amounts to a current bonus payment or a future one, though Mafu intimated there's a more future-orientated view among department figures.

"As we doff our hats to coach Hilton Moreeng and his charges, we wish to not only salute and thank you for what you have achieved, but also to encourage and incentivise you for your future encounters," Mafu said in an address to the team at recognition function in Melrose.

"We sincerely believe that your best achievements are still to come."

Mafu praised the efforts of Cricket South Africa (CSA) and longstanding commercial partner Momentum for their commitment towards pouring more resources into the local women's game, while recognising the need for increased support.

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"Despite successes, more needs to be done, especially in areas like parity in remuneration, outreach to rural communities, cricket at schools [and] regular competition," she said."We are aware that meeting these objectives will require more funding. It is for that reason that we are