Photo Credit: Cricket South Africa
The Proteas are in New York and the reception they have received at the onset of their eagerly awaited ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign has been as warm as the weather in the Big Apple.
The team was treated to a special welcome dinner co-hosted by Cricket South Africa (CSA) and the South African Consulate upon their arrival in New York at the Long Island Marriott Hotel on Saturday. In attendance were Mr. Dilip Chauhan, the Deputy Commissioner for International Affairs in the NYC Mayor’s Office; Mr. Marthinus Van Schalkwyk, The South African Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN; Mr Ismail Esau, The Chargé d’affaires at the South African Embassy in Washington DC and Ms. Ogaufi Mampane, The South African Consulate-General in New York. South African artist, Motswedi Modiba, revelled guests with her renditions of various Mzansi melodies.
On Tuesday, the Proteas squad and members of the management team travelled to the renowned Times Square, where they were greeted with a customised video message displayed prominently on the TSX screen in the heart of the bustling city that read, “New York Welcomes The Proteas!” The special screening was arranged by the renowned Roc Nation Sport International, with whom CSA enjoys a distinct partnership.
To wrap up the activities CSA teamed up with the formidable New York Yankees for the Proteas special visit to the iconic Yankee Stadium in the Bronx where they were the baseball team’s special guests for a match between the Yankees and the Minnesota Twins. The team was also treated to a special tour of the stadium. In addition, captain Aiden Markram, coach Rob Walter and fast bowler Kagiso Rabada conducted a jersey swap with Yankees coach Aaron Boone and star player Austin Wells.
Walter issued a vote of thanks to those who had quickly made the Proteas feel ‘at home’.
“The team is feeling incredibly motivated and grateful for the incredible support we’ve received here in New York,” Walter stated.
After claiming a tournament-opening win against Sri Lanka, the Proteas are next in action against the Netherlands on Saturday.
South Africa’s Remaining Group Stage Itinerary – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup West Indies and USA 2024
Saturday, 08 June – 10:30 (16:30 SAST)
Netherlands vs South Africa – Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York
Monday, 10 June – 10:30 (16:30 SAST)
South Africa vs Bangladesh – Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York
Friday, 14 June – 19:30 (01:30 SAST)
South Africa vs Nepal – Arnos Vale Ground, St Vincent
