Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and elected to bat in the second test against South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. 
 
Sri Lanka, who were hit heavily by injury in their first test defeat in Pretoria last week, made four changes and named new caps in Minod Bhanuka and Asitha Fernando as they look to fight back after losing the first of the two-test series last week. 
 
Lahiru Thirimanne and Dushmantha Chameera were also included as Sri Lanka have to do without injured Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, Lahiru Kumara and Kasun Rajitha. 
 
“The debutants have a good opportunity to express themselves in these conditions,” said Karunaratne after winning the toss. 
 
“The wickets looks good and we know the Wanderers wicket get harder and harder. We need to get the maximum out of the conditions at the top of the innings.” 
 
South Africa, who have lost eight of their last 10 tests, kept an unchanged line-up after winning by an innings and 45 runs at Centurion. Spinner Keshav Maharaj kept his place despite the temptation to go with an all-seam attack. 
 
Teams: 
 
South Africa: Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock (captain, wk), Temba Bavuma, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi 
 
Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne (captain), Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Minod Bhanuka, Dasun Shanaka, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando. 
 
 
 
(Editing by Jason Neely) 
&nbsp;

Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and elected to bat in the second test against South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. Sri Lanka, who were hit heavily by injury in their first test defeat in Pretoria last week, made four changes and named new caps in Minod Bhanuka and Asitha Fernando as they look to fight back after losing the first of the two-test series last week.

Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and elected to bat in the second test against South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. Sri Lanka, who were hit heavily by injury in their first test defeat in Pretoria last week, made four changes and named new caps in Minod Bhanuka and Asitha Fernando as they look to fight back after losing the first of the two-test series last week. Lahiru Thirimanne and Dushmantha Chameera were also included as Sri Lanka have to do without injured Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, Lahiru Kumara and Kasun Rajitha. “The debutants have a good opportunity to express themselves in these conditions,” said Karunaratne after winning the toss. “The wickets looks good and we know the Wanderers wicket get harder and harder. We need to get the maximum out of the conditions at the top of the innings.” South Africa, who have lost eight of their last 10 tests, kept an unchanged line-up after winning by an innings and 45 runs at Centurion. Spinner Keshav Maharaj kept his place despite the temptation to go with an all-seam attack. Teams: South Africa: Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock (captain, wk), Temba Bavuma, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne (captain), Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Minod Bhanuka, Dasun Shanaka, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando. (Editing by Jason Neely)

Sri Lanka win toss and elect to bat in second test

South Africa is struggling to contain a second wave of COVID-19 infections which appears to be driven by a new and more infectious variant of the disease.

South Africa struggles to contain second covid wave with new strain

After reporting cases of coronavirus variant which was found in the UK, Japan has now detected a coronavirus variant which was found in South Africa. After this incident, Japanese officials have banned the entry of foreign nationals.

Japan founds a coronavirus variant in South Africa

Sri Lankan cricketer Dhananjaya de Silva has been ruled out of the series against South Africa after sustaining grade two thigh strain, team officials confirmed on Sunday.

De Silva was retired hurt during the first innings on the Day 1 of the first test at Centurion Park on Saturday.

Silva's absence would leave a huge void in Lanka's batting and bowling line-up. He was batting on 79 as he cruised through for a comfortable single, immediately falling to the ground after completing the run.&nbsp;

The 29-year-old is expected to be out of the game for two weeks and the Lankans will hope to have him fit for the home series against England that starts in Galle on January 14.

Sri Lanka closed the opening day on 340 for six, a strong position on a wicket that is providing plenty of assistance to the bowlers.

(Reuters inputs)

Sri Lankan cricketer Dhananjaya de Silva has been ruled out of the series against South Africa after sustaining grade two thigh strain, team officials confirmed on Sunday.

Sri Lankan cricketer Dhananjaya de Silva has been ruled out of the series against South Africa after sustaining grade two thigh strain, team officials confirmed on Sunday. De Silva was retired hurt during the first innings on the Day 1 of the first test at Centurion Park on Saturday. Silva's absence would leave a huge void in Lanka's batting and bowling line-up. He was batting on 79 as he cruised through for a comfortable single, immediately falling to the ground after completing the run. The 29-year-old is expected to be out of the game for two weeks and the Lankans will hope to have him fit for the home series against England that starts in Galle on January 14. Sri Lanka closed the opening day on 340 for six, a strong position on a wicket that is providing plenty of assistance to the bowlers. (Reuters inputs)

Sri Lanka's Dhananjaya de Silva ruled out of South Africa series

At least 15 people have died in recent weeks on the South African side of the Beitbridge border with Zimbabwe in lengthy queues that have been slowed by coronavirus screening, television news channel eNCA said on Friday.

The health ministry, Department of Home Affairs and South African police Local did not respond immediately to Reuters’ requests on Friday for confirmation of fatalities that local media outlets attributed to exhaustion and ill health owing to a lack of facilities while waiting to cross the border, sometimes for days.

Images and videos on local news channels and circulated on social media showed lines of stationary cars, mainly trucks, stretching for kilometres on the narrow road leading to the inland Beitbridge port that serves as the main crossing point between the countries, and is more busy than usual at this time of year because of a seasonal return of migrants to Zimbabwe.

South Africa, which the United Nations says is host to an estimated 1.5 million Zimbabwean migrants, is suffering a second wave of COVID-19 infections.

Authorities suspect the surge in cases has been triggered by a genetic mutation of the disease. Total positive cases are now near the 1 million mark, by far the most on the continent.

Asked about the border delays in an interview on news channel eNCA, the director-general of South Africa’s Health Department, Sandile Buthelezi, said that coronavirus screening for outgoing traffic had now been suspended but proof of a negative COVID-19 test performed within 30 days would be required upon re-entry.

“The main backlog was outgoing trucks. We don’t require a test when you’re going out of the country,” Buthelezi said.

At least 15 people have died in recent weeks on the South African side of the Beitbridge border with Zimbabwe in lengthy queues that have been slowed by coronavirus screening, television news channel eNCA said on Friday.

At least 15 people have died in recent weeks on the South African side of the Beitbridge border with Zimbabwe in lengthy queues that have been slowed by coronavirus screening, television news channel eNCA said on Friday. The health ministry, Department of Home Affairs and South African police Local did not respond immediately to Reuters’ requests on Friday for confirmation of fatalities that local media outlets attributed to exhaustion and ill health owing to a lack of facilities while waiting to cross the border, sometimes for days. Images and videos on local news channels and circulated on social media showed lines of stationary cars, mainly trucks, stretching for kilometres on the narrow road leading to the inland Beitbridge port that serves as the main crossing point between the countries, and is more busy than usual at this time of year because of a seasonal return of migrants to Zimbabwe. South Africa, which the United Nations says is host to an estimated 1.5 million Zimbabwean migrants, is suffering a second wave of COVID-19 infections. Authorities suspect the surge in cases has been triggered by a genetic mutation of the disease. Total positive cases are now near the 1 million mark, by far the most on the continent. Asked about the border delays in an interview on news channel eNCA, the director-general of South Africa’s Health Department, Sandile Buthelezi, said that coronavirus screening for outgoing traffic had now been suspended but proof of a negative COVID-19 test performed within 30 days would be required upon re-entry. “The main backlog was outgoing trucks. We don’t require a test when you’re going out of the country,” Buthelezi said.

At least 15 dead in delays at South Africa-Zimbabwe border

Hong Kong extended a compulsory quarantine by an extra seven days to 21 days for all visitors outside China, effective Friday, in stepped-up efforts to prevent a new variant of the novel coronavirus from spreading.

Authorities also banned all people who have stayed in South Africa in the past 21 days from boarding for Hong Kong.

Hong Kong has already banned all flights arriving from the United Kingdom from Monday and the city said on Wednesday two students who returned from the UK were likely to be infected with the new super-virulent strain of COVID-19.

In a statement midnight on Friday, authorities said people who have stayed in places outside China during the 21 days before their arrival have to undergo 21 days of compulsory quarantine in designated quarantine hotels.

"Noting the drastic change of the global pandemic situation with the new virus variant found in more countries, there is a need for the government to introduce resolute measures immediately... to ensure that no case would slip through the net even under very exceptional cases where the incubation period of the virus is longer than 14 days," a government spokesman said.

Hong Kong extended a compulsory quarantine by an extra seven days to 21 days for all visitors outside China, effective Friday, in stepped-up efforts to prevent a new variant of the novel coronavirus from spreading.

Hong Kong extended a compulsory quarantine by an extra seven days to 21 days for all visitors outside China, effective Friday, in stepped-up efforts to prevent a new variant of the novel coronavirus from spreading. Authorities also banned all people who have stayed in South Africa in the past 21 days from boarding for Hong Kong. Hong Kong has already banned all flights arriving from the United Kingdom from Monday and the city said on Wednesday two students who returned from the UK were likely to be infected with the new super-virulent strain of COVID-19. In a statement midnight on Friday, authorities said people who have stayed in places outside China during the 21 days before their arrival have to undergo 21 days of compulsory quarantine in designated quarantine hotels. "Noting the drastic change of the global pandemic situation with the new virus variant found in more countries, there is a need for the government to introduce resolute measures immediately... to ensure that no case would slip through the net even under very exceptional cases where the incubation period of the virus is longer than 14 days," a government spokesman said.

Hong Kong imposes 21-day quarantine for visitors, adds South Africa to banned list

After the UK's health minister Matt Hancock claimed the new variant of coronavirus found in South Africa is deadlier,&nbsp;Zwelini Mkhize, his South African counterpart has denied these claims.

"At present, there is no evidence that the 501.V2 (variant) is more transmissible than the United Kingdom variant — as suggested by the British Health Secretary," said South Africa's Mkhize in a statement.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-uk-south-africa-another-coronavirus-variant-emerges-in-nigeria-352189">After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria</a>

The statement has come after the UK imposed travel restrictions from all incoming passengers from South Africa, citing the new coronavirus variant as a reason.

Hancock had issued travel restrictions&nbsp;on Wednesday and had claimed the variant from South Africa was "highly concerning, because it is yet more transmissible, and it appears to have mutated further".&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Mkhize has denied any such claims and said Hancock's statements "have created a perception that the variant in SA has been a major factor in the second wave in the UK", which he says is not true.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-600000-people-in-britain-get-first-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-jab-352187">Over 600,000 people in Britain get first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine jab</a>

"This is not correct," he said. "There is also no evidence that (it) causes more severe disease or increased mortality than the UK variant or any variant that has been sequenced around the world."

To further prove his point, he also pointed out that the new variant found in the UK appeared in Kent county near the month of September whereas the South African once developed around a month after that.

He also said "banning travel between UK and SA is an unfortunate decision" as "the risks of travel bans may outweigh the benefits".

As of now, a few other European countries, too, have restricted incoming passengers from South Africa, in addition to the UK passengers.

After the UK's health minister Matt Hancock claimed the new variant of coronavirus found in South Africa is deadlier, Zwelini Mkhize, his South African counterpart has denied these claims.

After the UK's health minister Matt Hancock claimed the new variant of coronavirus found in South Africa is deadlier, Zwelini Mkhize, his South African counterpart has denied these claims. "At present, there is no evidence that the 501.V2 (variant) is more transmissible than the United Kingdom variant — as suggested by the British Health Secretary," said South Africa's Mkhize in a statement. Also read| After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria The statement has come after the UK imposed travel restrictions from all incoming passengers from South Africa, citing the new coronavirus variant as a reason. Hancock had issued travel restrictions on Wednesday and had claimed the variant from South Africa was "highly concerning, because it is yet more transmissible, and it appears to have mutated further". However, Mkhize has denied any such claims and said Hancock's statements "have created a perception that the variant in SA has been a major factor in the second wave in the UK", which he says is not true. Also read| Over 600,000 people in Britain get first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine jab "This is not correct," he said. "There is also no evidence that (it) causes more severe disease or increased mortality than the UK variant or any variant that has been sequenced around the world." To further prove his point, he also pointed out that the new variant found in the UK appeared in Kent county near the month of September whereas the South African once developed around a month after that. He also said "banning travel between UK and SA is an unfortunate decision" as "the risks of travel bans may outweigh the benefits". As of now, a few other European countries, too, have restricted incoming passengers from South Africa, in addition to the UK passengers.

'Not true': South Africa denies new variant is deadlier than UK's strain

In what could be a new alarm to the Covid-19 pandemic globally, another variant of coronavirus has emerged in Africa’s most populous country, after distinct mutants of the virus have been reported from the UK and South Africa over the last few days. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-emerges-as-new-hotspot-in-uk-1-in-85-people-infected-352089">Also read | London emerges as new hotspot in UK, 1-in-85 people infected</a> 
 
The discovery could add to new alarm in the pandemic after similar variants were announced in Britain and South Africa, leading to the swift return of international travel restrictions and other measures just as the world enters a major holiday season. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-will-stay-with-us-for-the-next-10-years-says-vaccine-creator-351920">Also read | Coronavirus will stay with us for the next 10 years, says vaccine creator</a>

"It's a separate lineage from the UK and the South African lineages," John Nkengasong, director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) told an online news conference from Addis Ababa.

"The one we are seeing in Nigeria, and this is based on very limited data yet, has the 501 mutation," Nkengasong added, referring to the variant termed 501.V2 identified in South Africa and announced by public health officials there on December 18.

The Nigeria CDC and the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases in Nigeria will study more samples, Nkengasong said.

The country's principal COVID-19 investigator has just released publicly the genomic sequences of the new variant, he added.

Nigeria's CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Nkengasong's remarks.

Nigeria, Africa's most populous country with more than 200 million people, has seen fewer coronavirus cases than many others on the continent.

Total cases crept past 80,000 on Wednesday. Daily recorded cases exceeded 1,000 for the first time this month.

(With inputs from agencies)

In what could be a new alarm to the Covid-19 pandemic globally, another variant of coronavirus has emerged in Africa’s most populous country, after distinct mutants of the virus have been reported from the UK and South Africa over the last few days.

In what could be a new alarm to the Covid-19 pandemic globally, another variant of coronavirus has emerged in Africa’s most populous country, after distinct mutants of the virus have been reported from the UK and South Africa over the last few days. Also read | London emerges as new hotspot in UK, 1-in-85 people infected The discovery could add to new alarm in the pandemic after similar variants were announced in Britain and South Africa, leading to the swift return of international travel restrictions and other measures just as the world enters a major holiday season. Also read | Coronavirus will stay with us for the next 10 years, says vaccine creator "It's a separate lineage from the UK and the South African lineages," John Nkengasong, director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) told an online news conference from Addis Ababa. "The one we are seeing in Nigeria, and this is based on very limited data yet, has the 501 mutation," Nkengasong added, referring to the variant termed 501.V2 identified in South Africa and announced by public health officials there on December 18. The Nigeria CDC and the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases in Nigeria will study more samples, Nkengasong said. The country's principal COVID-19 investigator has just released publicly the genomic sequences of the new variant, he added. Nigeria's CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Nkengasong's remarks. Nigeria, Africa's most populous country with more than 200 million people, has seen fewer coronavirus cases than many others on the continent. Total cases crept past 80,000 on Wednesday. Daily recorded cases exceeded 1,000 for the first time this month. (With inputs from agencies)

After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria

U.K. Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said that another strain of Coronavirus has detected in the U.K. which has been originated from South Africa.

Today Tonight: New COVID-19 strain from South Africa detected in U.K.

The restrictions, which applied with immediate effect, were introduced following the discovery of two cases of the virus strain in Britain.

UK announces South Africa travel restrictions over new Covid strain

Countries around the world are implementing ban on air travel from other countries, where new COVID-19 stress cases have been reported. New COVID-19 strain cases reported in South Africa too.

New COVID-19 strain in South Africa, Countries announce flight suspension

After the United Kingdom, South Africa has also found a new strain of the novel coronavirus which has resulted in a surge of cases, prompting a second wave.

The health minister took to Twitter to announce the news. "We have convened this public briefing today to announce that a variant of the SARS-COV-2 Virus - currently termed 501.V2 Variant - has been identified by our genomics scientists here in South Africa,"&nbsp;Minister of Health Zweli Mkhize tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We have convened this public briefing today to announce that a variant of the SARS-COV-2 Virus- currently termed 501.V2 Variant has been identified by our genomics scientists here in South Africa.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SARSCOV2MediaBriefing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SARSCOV2MediaBriefing</a>
— Dr Zweli Mkhize (@DrZweliMkhize) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrZweliMkhize/status/1339970259332325383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-variant-of-coronavirus-identified-in-uk-london-in-tier-3-lockdown-349785">New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in tier 3 lockdown</a>

The conclusion was made on the basis of hundreds of samples that were collected by the scientists since the beginning of the pandemic in March. This research has been carried out by a team of&nbsp;genomics team, led by the Kwazulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP).

Explaining the research, the minister tweeted, "Clinicians have been providing anecdotal evidence of a shift in the clinical epidemiological picture- in particular noting that they are seeing a larger proportion of younger patients with no co-morbidities presenting with critical illness."

As per the evidence, the second wave has been caused by this new variant. The scientists have also claimed that the second d wave is spreading faster than the first wave. However, whether or not it has claimed more deaths is not yet clear.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-indication-new-covid-19-variant-in-uk-interferes-with-vaccine-effectiveness-who-349870">No indication new Covid-19 variant in UK interferes with vaccine effectiveness: WHO</a>

He also revealed that the second wave has become dominant in South Africa as it has reached all the provinces and the new variant has three mutations.

The first case of this new variant was found in the&nbsp;Nelson Mandela Bay. However, the origin of the new variant is not yet clear.

Officials had already notified the World Health Organization (WHO) who have got in contact with the researchers. "We are working with them with our SARS-COV-2 Virus evolution working group. They are growing the virus in the country and they're working with researchers to determine any changes in the behaviour of the virus itself in terms of transmission," WHO epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove told a news conference in Geneva.

This announcement has come a few days after the UK, too, announced identifying a new strain of coronavirus in their country.

After the United Kingdom, South Africa has also found a new strain of the novel coronavirus which has resulted in a surge of cases, prompting a second wave. The health minister took to Twitter to announce the news.

After the United Kingdom, South Africa has also found a new strain of the novel coronavirus which has resulted in a surge of cases, prompting a second wave. The health minister took to Twitter to announce the news. "We have convened this public briefing today to announce that a variant of the SARS-COV-2 Virus - currently termed 501.V2 Variant - has been identified by our genomics scientists here in South Africa," Minister of Health Zweli Mkhize tweeted. We have convened this public briefing today to announce that a variant of the SARS-COV-2 Virus- currently termed 501.V2 Variant has been identified by our genomics scientists here in South Africa.#SARSCOV2MediaBriefing — Dr Zweli Mkhize (@DrZweliMkhize) December 18, 2020 × Also read| New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in tier 3 lockdown The conclusion was made on the basis of hundreds of samples that were collected by the scientists since the beginning of the pandemic in March. This research has been carried out by a team of genomics team, led by the Kwazulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP). Explaining the research, the minister tweeted, "Clinicians have been providing anecdotal evidence of a shift in the clinical epidemiological picture- in particular noting that they are seeing a larger proportion of younger patients with no co-morbidities presenting with critical illness." As per the evidence, the second wave has been caused by this new variant. The scientists have also claimed that the second d wave is spreading faster than the first wave. However, whether or not it has claimed more deaths is not yet clear. Also read| No indication new Covid-19 variant in UK interferes with vaccine effectiveness: WHO He also revealed that the second wave has become dominant in South Africa as it has reached all the provinces and the new variant has three mutations. The first case of this new variant was found in the Nelson Mandela Bay. However, the origin of the new variant is not yet clear. Officials had already notified the World Health Organization (WHO) who have got in contact with the researchers. "We are working with them with our SARS-COV-2 Virus evolution working group. They are growing the virus in the country and they're working with researchers to determine any changes in the behaviour of the virus itself in terms of transmission," WHO epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove told a news conference in Geneva. This announcement has come a few days after the UK, too, announced identifying a new strain of coronavirus in their country.

After UK, South Africa identifies new strain of coronavirus amid second wave

Quinton de Kock has been named South Africa test captain for the 2020-21 season and will lead an inexperienced squad without leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada at the start of the two-match series against Sri Lanka in Pretoria on Dec. 26.

South Africa’s director of cricket, Graeme Smith, had previously said the workload of captaining the test side would be too much for white-ball skipper de Kock, but the selectors have had a change of heart.

"Quinton is happy to continue in the role for the next season, and is comfortable with the balance of the workload and we back him fully as a captain," Convenor of Selectors Victor Mpitsang said in a statement released by Cricket South Africa.

"We are also pleased with the leadership group in the team and are cultivating a strong individual leadership culture at the same time, so that the team produces a sustainable stream of potential captains for the future."

Left-handed batsman Sarel Erwee, seamer Glenton Stuurman and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne have all received first call-ups in what is a new-look squad with a return also for all-rounder Wiaan Mulder after a lengthy absence though injury.

Uncapped batsman Keegan Petersen is also included, and there is a recall for opener Aiden Markram.

Strike bowler Rabada is not fit enough for the first test, but will be considered for the second that begins in Johannesburg on Jan. 3 if he recovers from a hip injury.

Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje and Beuran Hendricks are the senior seam bowlers in the squad.

Sri Lanka stunned South Africa in Feb. 2019 when they became the first Asian team to win a test series in the country. Then came a home series defeat to England followed by plenty of soul-searching within the camp.

South Africa test squad: Quinton de Kock (captain), Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Faf du Plessis, Beuran Hendricks, Dean Elgar, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Rassie van der Dussen, Sarel Erwee, Anrich Nortje, Glenton Stuurman, Wiaan Mulder, Keegan Petersen, Kyle Verreynne.

Quinton de Kock has been named South Africa test captain for the 2020-21 season and will lead an inexperienced squad without leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada at the start of the two-match series against Sri Lanka in Pretoria on Dec.

Quinton de Kock has been named South Africa test captain for the 2020-21 season and will lead an inexperienced squad without leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada at the start of the two-match series against Sri Lanka in Pretoria on Dec. 26. South Africa’s director of cricket, Graeme Smith, had previously said the workload of captaining the test side would be too much for white-ball skipper de Kock, but the selectors have had a change of heart. "Quinton is happy to continue in the role for the next season, and is comfortable with the balance of the workload and we back him fully as a captain," Convenor of Selectors Victor Mpitsang said in a statement released by Cricket South Africa. "We are also pleased with the leadership group in the team and are cultivating a strong individual leadership culture at the same time, so that the team produces a sustainable stream of potential captains for the future." Left-handed batsman Sarel Erwee, seamer Glenton Stuurman and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne have all received first call-ups in what is a new-look squad with a return also for all-rounder Wiaan Mulder after a lengthy absence though injury. Uncapped batsman Keegan Petersen is also included, and there is a recall for opener Aiden Markram. Strike bowler Rabada is not fit enough for the first test, but will be considered for the second that begins in Johannesburg on Jan. 3 if he recovers from a hip injury. Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje and Beuran Hendricks are the senior seam bowlers in the squad. Sri Lanka stunned South Africa in Feb. 2019 when they became the first Asian team to win a test series in the country. Then came a home series defeat to England followed by plenty of soul-searching within the camp. South Africa test squad: Quinton de Kock (captain), Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Faf du Plessis, Beuran Hendricks, Dean Elgar, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Rassie van der Dussen, Sarel Erwee, Anrich Nortje, Glenton Stuurman, Wiaan Mulder, Keegan Petersen, Kyle Verreynne.

Quinton de Kock to captain South Africa test team without strike bowler Rabada

South Africa has decided to rest one of their in-form players ahead of the One Day International series against England on Friday.&nbsp;

Former Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis was left out in the squad after competing in the Twenty20 games against England, which the visitors swept 3-0, and in the Indian Premier League for the Chennai Super Kings.

The 36-year-old player retired from Test cricket earlier this year. He now will join Kagiso Rabada, who suffered an adductor injury earlier this week and will only return later this month for the test series against Sri Lanka.

Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks and Pite van Biljon were also all released from the squad on Thursday as the numbers were reduced to 18.

Squad:

Quinton de Kock (captain), Temba Bavuma, Junior Dala, Beuran Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Janneman Malan, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Lutho Sipamla, Jon- Jon Smuts, Glenton Stuurman, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne.

Earlier, England's limited-overs captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday defended the cryptic signals and information received from video analyst Nathan Leamon during the third T20I against South Africa in Cape Town while adding that he would continue to make use of signals from the team balcony.

Leamon, England’s video analyst, was seen showing images of numbers are letters from England team’s balcony during the third T20I against South Africa – a move that has raised question marks from the cricket fraternity.

"There have been no real signals," said Morgan.&nbsp;

"There has always been constant communication, verbal or physical, from the change room to us the field to help improve my decisions as captain and Jos Buttler’s decisions as vice-captain,” said Morgan.

South Africa has decided to rest one of their in-form players ahead of the One Day International series against England on Friday. Former Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis was left out in the squad after competing in the Twenty20 games against England, which the visitors swept 3-0, and in the Indian Premier League for the Chennai Super Kings.

South Africa has decided to rest one of their in-form players ahead of the One Day International series against England on Friday. Former Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis was left out in the squad after competing in the Twenty20 games against England, which the visitors swept 3-0, and in the Indian Premier League for the Chennai Super Kings. The 36-year-old player retired from Test cricket earlier this year. He now will join Kagiso Rabada, who suffered an adductor injury earlier this week and will only return later this month for the test series against Sri Lanka. Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks and Pite van Biljon were also all released from the squad on Thursday as the numbers were reduced to 18. Squad: Quinton de Kock (captain), Temba Bavuma, Junior Dala, Beuran Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Janneman Malan, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Lutho Sipamla, Jon- Jon Smuts, Glenton Stuurman, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne. Earlier, England's limited-overs captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday defended the cryptic signals and information received from video analyst Nathan Leamon during the third T20I against South Africa in Cape Town while adding that he would continue to make use of signals from the team balcony. Leamon, England’s video analyst, was seen showing images of numbers are letters from England team’s balcony during the third T20I against South Africa – a move that has raised question marks from the cricket fraternity. "There have been no real signals," said Morgan. "There has always been constant communication, verbal or physical, from the change room to us the field to help improve my decisions as captain and Jos Buttler’s decisions as vice-captain,” said Morgan.

South Africa to rest ex-skipper Du Plessis against England for ODI series

Dawid Malan and Jos Buttler launched a savage assault on South Africa's bowlers as England completed a series clean sweep with a nine-wicket win in the third and final Twenty20 international at Newlands in Cape Town on Tuesday.

Man of the series Malan finished on 99 not out, while Buttler was unbeaten on 67.

They shared a world record T20 international second wicket partnership of 167 off 90 balls to make South Africa's 191 for three look insignificant. England won with 14 balls to spare.

Rassie van der Dussen (74 not out) and Faf du Plessis (52 not out) set up South Africa's biggest total of the series in an unbeaten partnership of 127 off 66 balls for the fourth wicket.

But the left-handed Malan was quickly into his stride when he joined Buttler after the dismissal of Jason Roy. By the end, South Africa looked a demoralised team.&nbsp;

"Those guys played unbelievable innings, they put our bowlers under a lot of pressure," admitted home captain and wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock, who fumbled a return from fielder Temba Bavuma when Malan, on 36, was well out of his ground.

"It was nice to get a bit of momentum at the start," said Malan, who hit two fours and a six off the first four deliveries he faced. "The wicket played really well."

England captain Eoin Morgan said the pitch had played far better than he expected at the toss, when he anticipated a low-scoring match. "To win in such commanding fashion builds a lot of confidence in the change room," he said.

Malan hit 11 fours and five sixes in his 47-ball innings. Buttler faced one ball fewer and hit three fours and five sixes.

England were always well up with the required rate but put themselves in total command in the 10th and 11th overs when they hit 21 and 19 runs off Lutho Sipamla and Tabraiz Shamsi respectively.

Sipamla, replacing the injured Kagiso Rabada and playing his first match of any type since the last South African season, was thrashed for 45 runs off 2.4 overs.

Left-arm wrist spinner Shamsi conceded 57 runs off four overs, two days after taking three for 19 in the second match in Paarl.

The teams meet in a three-match one-day international series, starting at the same venue on Friday.

Dawid Malan and Jos Buttler launched a savage assault on South Africa's bowlers as England completed a series clean sweep with a nine-wicket win in the third and final Twenty20 international at Newlands in Cape Town on Tuesday.

Dawid Malan and Jos Buttler launched a savage assault on South Africa's bowlers as England completed a series clean sweep with a nine-wicket win in the third and final Twenty20 international at Newlands in Cape Town on Tuesday. Man of the series Malan finished on 99 not out, while Buttler was unbeaten on 67. They shared a world record T20 international second wicket partnership of 167 off 90 balls to make South Africa's 191 for three look insignificant. England won with 14 balls to spare. Rassie van der Dussen (74 not out) and Faf du Plessis (52 not out) set up South Africa's biggest total of the series in an unbeaten partnership of 127 off 66 balls for the fourth wicket. But the left-handed Malan was quickly into his stride when he joined Buttler after the dismissal of Jason Roy. By the end, South Africa looked a demoralised team. "Those guys played unbelievable innings, they put our bowlers under a lot of pressure," admitted home captain and wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock, who fumbled a return from fielder Temba Bavuma when Malan, on 36, was well out of his ground. "It was nice to get a bit of momentum at the start," said Malan, who hit two fours and a six off the first four deliveries he faced. "The wicket played really well." England captain Eoin Morgan said the pitch had played far better than he expected at the toss, when he anticipated a low-scoring match. "To win in such commanding fashion builds a lot of confidence in the change room," he said. Malan hit 11 fours and five sixes in his 47-ball innings. Buttler faced one ball fewer and hit three fours and five sixes. England were always well up with the required rate but put themselves in total command in the 10th and 11th overs when they hit 21 and 19 runs off Lutho Sipamla and Tabraiz Shamsi respectively. Sipamla, replacing the injured Kagiso Rabada and playing his first match of any type since the last South African season, was thrashed for 45 runs off 2.4 overs. Left-arm wrist spinner Shamsi conceded 57 runs off four overs, two days after taking three for 19 in the second match in Paarl. The teams meet in a three-match one-day international series, starting at the same venue on Friday.

Malan smacks unbeaten 99 as England romp to series sweep

England's limited over captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday said that he is still unaware of best XI going into the three-match T20I series against hosts South Africa that commences at Newlands on Friday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-india-odi-series-preview-schedule-head-to-head-stats-and-more-345560" hreflang="en">Australia vs India, ODI series: Preview, schedule, head-to-head stats and more</a>

For the first time in 2020, England gets to choose from a full-strength squad. However, Morgan admits there is plenty to ponder in both the batting and bowling line-ups, as well as the balance of the side in the shortest format.

"We don’t know our best XI yet," he told reporters on Thursday. "There are probably seven or eight guys who are strong candidates to be in the first XI. But with a full-strength squad here there is so much to discuss around team selection.

"To start with, you need to try and figure out who your best six or seven batsmen are, then try and get them in the roles that best suit them and the team, and that gives you the best chance of winning the games."

England will include in-form star all-rounder Ben Stokes. However, England is still unclear about the number seven batting position.&nbsp;

"Looking ahead to the World Cup we will probably need the option of two spinners. Then again, if we have the luxury of two all-rounders in the side (in these conditions) in Ben and Sam, that is also huge.

"Winning at the moment would be great, but it is more important that we get the players’ roles right and they get comfortable in them. Then the results will look after themselves."

England's limited over captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday said that he is still unaware of best XI going into the three-match T20I series against hosts South Africa that commences at Newlands on Friday.

England's limited over captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday said that he is still unaware of best XI going into the three-match T20I series against hosts South Africa that commences at Newlands on Friday. Also read: Australia vs India, ODI series: Preview, schedule, head-to-head stats and more For the first time in 2020, England gets to choose from a full-strength squad. However, Morgan admits there is plenty to ponder in both the batting and bowling line-ups, as well as the balance of the side in the shortest format. "We don’t know our best XI yet," he told reporters on Thursday. "There are probably seven or eight guys who are strong candidates to be in the first XI. But with a full-strength squad here there is so much to discuss around team selection. "To start with, you need to try and figure out who your best six or seven batsmen are, then try and get them in the roles that best suit them and the team, and that gives you the best chance of winning the games." England will include in-form star all-rounder Ben Stokes. However, England is still unclear about the number seven batting position. "Looking ahead to the World Cup we will probably need the option of two spinners. Then again, if we have the luxury of two all-rounders in the side (in these conditions) in Ben and Sam, that is also huge. "Winning at the moment would be great, but it is more important that we get the players’ roles right and they get comfortable in them. Then the results will look after themselves."

Eoin Morgan puzzled about England's best T20 side against Proteas

The crisis engulfing South African cricket was seemingly averted on Monday as the interim board of the country's governing body looked set to be appointed hours before England were due to fly to Cape Town for a limited overs tour.

Judge Zak Yacoob, chairman of the interim board of Cricket South Africa (CSA), said in a message sent to reporters that the body's members' council had made the decision to recognise the board after a weekend of uncertainty.

Yacoob said that the decision had been made on Monday afternoon and that there would be a meeting between the members' council –- representing the presidents of South Africa's provincial unions –- and the interim board on Monday evening.

Contacted by AFP, there was no immediate confirmation from CSA.

Yacoob's remarks followed a weekend of uncertainty during which the members' council reportedly initially refused to bow to pressure from sports minister Nathi Mthethwa, who has the power to withdraw government recognition of CSA as the controlling body of cricket in South Africa.

Mthethwa threatened to intervene directly unless the council reversed a decision, announced last Thursday, not to recognise the interim board.

Government interference would jeopardise South Africa's standing in the International Cricket Council, potentially putting international tours at risk, although it was reported locally that the England and Wales Cricket Board had been assured that the crisis would not affect the England tour.

The England team were due to fly to Cape Town on Monday evening for three Twenty20 internationals and three one-day internationals, starting on November 27.

The interim board was appointed last month after all the elected board members, including some who remain on the members’ council, resigned.&nbsp;

Their resignations brought to a climax a year of turmoil in the administration of South African cricket.

The crisis engulfing South African cricket was seemingly averted on Monday as the interim board of the country's governing body looked set to be appointed hours before England were due to fly to Cape Town for a limited overs tour.

The crisis engulfing South African cricket was seemingly averted on Monday as the interim board of the country's governing body looked set to be appointed hours before England were due to fly to Cape Town for a limited overs tour. Judge Zak Yacoob, chairman of the interim board of Cricket South Africa (CSA), said in a message sent to reporters that the body's members' council had made the decision to recognise the board after a weekend of uncertainty. Yacoob said that the decision had been made on Monday afternoon and that there would be a meeting between the members' council –- representing the presidents of South Africa's provincial unions –- and the interim board on Monday evening. Contacted by AFP, there was no immediate confirmation from CSA. Yacoob's remarks followed a weekend of uncertainty during which the members' council reportedly initially refused to bow to pressure from sports minister Nathi Mthethwa, who has the power to withdraw government recognition of CSA as the controlling body of cricket in South Africa. Mthethwa threatened to intervene directly unless the council reversed a decision, announced last Thursday, not to recognise the interim board. Government interference would jeopardise South Africa's standing in the International Cricket Council, potentially putting international tours at risk, although it was reported locally that the England and Wales Cricket Board had been assured that the crisis would not affect the England tour. The England team were due to fly to Cape Town on Monday evening for three Twenty20 internationals and three one-day internationals, starting on November 27. The interim board was appointed last month after all the elected board members, including some who remain on the members’ council, resigned. Their resignations brought to a climax a year of turmoil in the administration of South African cricket.

South African cricket crisis nears end as board set to be appointed

English player Jos Buttler lauded South African skipper Quinton de Kock as one of his "favourite players in the world" ahead of their series.&nbsp;

Respective opening batsmen have been in good form and will play vital role for their teams in this series.&nbsp;

"I'm a huge fan of his," Buttler told reporters on Monday before the squad left for Cape Town. "He is a fantastic player with an excellent cricket brain. I really enjoy how he views the game and looks to take it on.

"He is one of my favourite players in the world at the moment, and is brilliant with the bat and as a wicketkeeper."

Buttler is a wicketkeeper for the English side.&nbsp;

England will play six limited-overs matches in South Africa between November 27 and December 9, including three ODIs, but it is the shortest format that will carry the most interest with looming Twenty20 World Cups next year and in 2022.

Buttler also said that the T20 series will help Englnd work through their selection permutations.

"To win the series is the ultimate aim, but also building towards the World Cups. In 50-over cricket we did that, winning and learning at the same time ahead of the (2019) tournament.

"Winning gives you confidence and clarity about your side. The 50-over team (that won the World Cup) nearly picked itself towards the end of that cycle.

"That gives you a lot of confidence, you are familiar with your own role and what to expect from your team mates."

English player Jos Buttler lauded South African skipper Quinton de Kock as one of his "favourite players in the world" ahead of their series. Respective opening batsmen have been in good form and will play vital role for their teams in this series.

English player Jos Buttler lauded South African skipper Quinton de Kock as one of his "favourite players in the world" ahead of their series. Respective opening batsmen have been in good form and will play vital role for their teams in this series. "I'm a huge fan of his," Buttler told reporters on Monday before the squad left for Cape Town. "He is a fantastic player with an excellent cricket brain. I really enjoy how he views the game and looks to take it on. "He is one of my favourite players in the world at the moment, and is brilliant with the bat and as a wicketkeeper." Buttler is a wicketkeeper for the English side. England will play six limited-overs matches in South Africa between November 27 and December 9, including three ODIs, but it is the shortest format that will carry the most interest with looming Twenty20 World Cups next year and in 2022. Buttler also said that the T20 series will help Englnd work through their selection permutations. "To win the series is the ultimate aim, but also building towards the World Cups. In 50-over cricket we did that, winning and learning at the same time ahead of the (2019) tournament. "Winning gives you confidence and clarity about your side. The 50-over team (that won the World Cup) nearly picked itself towards the end of that cycle. "That gives you a lot of confidence, you are familiar with your own role and what to expect from your team mates."

Buttler lauds this South African batsman and calls him 'favourite player in the world'

A survey published on Monday revealed that the governance performance of Africa worsened for the first time in ten years.&nbsp;

The survey takes into account human rights, rule of law, and security among many. The Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG), considered the most comprehensive survey in Africa rates 54 African countries. The criteria are as follows: human rights, security, economic stability, just laws, free elections, corruption, infrastructure, health and education, and poverty.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ethiopia-says-tigray-town-seized-war-embroils-eritrea-343515" hreflang="en">Ethiopia says Tigray town seized, war embroils Eritrea</a>

A decline of -0.2 points was recorded in the 2019 average, the compared to 2018. This marked the first sign of deterioration since 2010.

The 2019 African average score for overall governance declined by -0.2 points from 2018, registering the first year-on-year score deterioration since 2010, the report published by the foundation of Sudanese telecoms tycoon Mo Ibrahim said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/researchers-plan-new-colony-as-african-penguins-face-extinction-risk-341926" hreflang="en">Researchers plan new colony as African penguins face extinction risk</a>

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation, founded by Sudan’s telecom tycoon Mo Ibrahim aims to promote effective governance and development in Africa by compiling the data.

The report added that the progress achieved on the continent in the last decade was driven by improvements in economic opportunities and human development, as reported by Reuters.

"This is threatened, however, by an increasingly precarious security situation and concerning erosion in rights as well as civic and democratic space," the report said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ethiopias-internal-conflict-goes-beyond-its-borders-rockets-hit-eritrea-capital-343193" hreflang="en">Ethiopia's internal conflict goes beyond its borders, rockets hit Eritrea capital</a>

According to the survey, declines were experienced across security, rule of law, participation, rights, and inclusion. According to the index, the region’s top performers include Mauritius, Cape Verde and Seychelles. At the bottom were South Sudan, Eritrea, and Equatorial Guinea.

A survey published on Monday revealed that the governance performance of Africa worsened for the first time in ten years. The survey takes into account human rights, rule of law, and security among many.

A survey published on Monday revealed that the governance performance of Africa worsened for the first time in ten years. The survey takes into account human rights, rule of law, and security among many. The Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG), considered the most comprehensive survey in Africa rates 54 African countries. The criteria are as follows: human rights, security, economic stability, just laws, free elections, corruption, infrastructure, health and education, and poverty. Also read: Ethiopia says Tigray town seized, war embroils Eritrea A decline of -0.2 points was recorded in the 2019 average, the compared to 2018. This marked the first sign of deterioration since 2010. The 2019 African average score for overall governance declined by -0.2 points from 2018, registering the first year-on-year score deterioration since 2010, the report published by the foundation of Sudanese telecoms tycoon Mo Ibrahim said. Also read: Researchers plan new colony as African penguins face extinction risk The Mo Ibrahim Foundation, founded by Sudan’s telecom tycoon Mo Ibrahim aims to promote effective governance and development in Africa by compiling the data. The report added that the progress achieved on the continent in the last decade was driven by improvements in economic opportunities and human development, as reported by Reuters. "This is threatened, however, by an increasingly precarious security situation and concerning erosion in rights as well as civic and democratic space," the report said. Also read: Ethiopia's internal conflict goes beyond its borders, rockets hit Eritrea capital According to the survey, declines were experienced across security, rule of law, participation, rights, and inclusion. According to the index, the region’s top performers include Mauritius, Cape Verde and Seychelles. At the bottom were South Sudan, Eritrea, and Equatorial Guinea.

Governance and human rights decline in Africa for first time in 10 years: Survey

South African president Cyril Ramaphosa has called for restraint Tuesday following clashes at an anti-racism protest outside a school in Cape Town.

Members of the leftist opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters protested in front of the Brackenfell High School over allegations that a school graduation event was attended only by white pupils.

The protest turned violent when the Black demonstrators were attacked by a predominantly white group reported to be parents of students.

Videos circulating on social media have and South African news websites show the white adults shoving and hitting some of the Black demonstrators, shouting insults and demanding that they leave the area near the school. The groups throw stones at each other, according to images in one video.

In a statement Tuesday, South Africa's president condemned the clashes and emphasized that anybody had the right to stage lawful protests in the country.

“It is the right of every South African to engage in peaceful protest, and any actions to suppress the right to freedom of expression, particularly through violence and intimidation, must be roundly condemned,” said Ramaphosa.

He also called for an investigation into allegations of racism at the school which led to the confrontation between the protesters and the parents.

Alan Winde, premier of South Africa's Western Cape Province where the incident took place has also called for calm and discussions instead of violence.

“Don’t resort to violence," Winde said. “I call on citizens to be calm and to deal with these issues in a responsible manner.”

South African president Cyril Ramaphosa has called for restraint Tuesday following clashes at an anti-racism protest outside a school in Cape Town. Members of the leftist opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters protested in front of the Brackenfell High School over allegations that a school graduation event was attended only by white pupils.

South African president Cyril Ramaphosa has called for restraint Tuesday following clashes at an anti-racism protest outside a school in Cape Town. Members of the leftist opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters protested in front of the Brackenfell High School over allegations that a school graduation event was attended only by white pupils. The protest turned violent when the Black demonstrators were attacked by a predominantly white group reported to be parents of students. Videos circulating on social media have and South African news websites show the white adults shoving and hitting some of the Black demonstrators, shouting insults and demanding that they leave the area near the school. The groups throw stones at each other, according to images in one video. In a statement Tuesday, South Africa's president condemned the clashes and emphasized that anybody had the right to stage lawful protests in the country. “It is the right of every South African to engage in peaceful protest, and any actions to suppress the right to freedom of expression, particularly through violence and intimidation, must be roundly condemned,” said Ramaphosa. He also called for an investigation into allegations of racism at the school which led to the confrontation between the protesters and the parents. Alan Winde, premier of South Africa's Western Cape Province where the incident took place has also called for calm and discussions instead of violence. “Don’t resort to violence," Winde said. “I call on citizens to be calm and to deal with these issues in a responsible manner.”

Blacks and Whites clash at South African school incident

Racial tensions have risen in South Africa this week since the murder of a white farmer by suspected two Black men earlier this month. Watch report.

Racial tensions rise in South Africa after White farm manager murder

Subscribers to the world's largest streaming service can now watch "Poacher", a Kenyan drama about elephant poaching and "Oloture", a Nigerian thriller about a journalist whose world falls apart after she goes undercover as a sex worker.

New African-made films on Netflix go beyond Hollywood stereotypes

Britain's Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, have reached a settlement with a celebrity photo agency that took unauthorized pictures of their young son at home, according to court documents filed on Thursday (October 8).

Photo agency settles with Harry and Meghan over photos of their son at home

South Africa plans to lease state land for farming in a bid to redress longstanding racial imbalances, President Cyril Ramaphosa said Monday, calling the campaign a "national priority".

The programme involving some 700,000 hectares (1.7 million acres) of vacant or underutilised land will also create jobs.

Plots will be available for 30-year lease, providing they are put to agricultural use, starting later this month, according to an announcement last week by the Land Reform department.

The initiative is part of a wider land reform programme aimed at fixing disparities caused by decades of the apartheid and colonialism during which most of the land was reserved for the minority white population.

Ramaphosa noted that while the state had already sold or leased 8.4 million hectares of land to "previously disadvantaged individuals" between 1994 and 2018, only 10 per cent was commercial farmland.

When the ruling African National Congress (ANC) came to power in 1994 on the back of the victorious anti-apartheid struggle, the government pledged to redistribute 30 percent of South Africa's 60,000 commercial farms to blacks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A 2017 study led by former president Kgalema Motlanthe painted the picture of a "slow and ineffective pace of land reform".

Ramaphosa also stressed the importance of boosting agriculture in a country where more than 40 percent of the rural population and almost 60 percent of city dwellers had "inadequate access to food" in 2019 -- figures likely to have increased this year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Women, youth and people with disabilities will be given priority access to the state farm leases, which are non-transferable and include compulsory training.

More than two million South Africans lost their jobs between April and June this year as a result of lockdowns imposed to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

In addition, unemployment is consistently higher among black South Africans, according to government statistics.

South Africa's parliament is meanwhile debating constitutional amendments that would allow the expropriation of certain farmland without any compensation.

A deadline for its decision was pushed back to the end of December 2020 due to coronavirus.

South Africa plans to lease state land for farming in a bid to redress longstanding racial imbalances, President Cyril Ramaphosa said Monday, calling the campaign a "national priority".

South Africa plans to lease state land for farming in a bid to redress longstanding racial imbalances, President Cyril Ramaphosa said Monday, calling the campaign a "national priority". The programme involving some 700,000 hectares (1.7 million acres) of vacant or underutilised land will also create jobs. Plots will be available for 30-year lease, providing they are put to agricultural use, starting later this month, according to an announcement last week by the Land Reform department. The initiative is part of a wider land reform programme aimed at fixing disparities caused by decades of the apartheid and colonialism during which most of the land was reserved for the minority white population. Ramaphosa noted that while the state had already sold or leased 8.4 million hectares of land to "previously disadvantaged individuals" between 1994 and 2018, only 10 per cent was commercial farmland. When the ruling African National Congress (ANC) came to power in 1994 on the back of the victorious anti-apartheid struggle, the government pledged to redistribute 30 percent of South Africa's 60,000 commercial farms to blacks. A 2017 study led by former president Kgalema Motlanthe painted the picture of a "slow and ineffective pace of land reform". Ramaphosa also stressed the importance of boosting agriculture in a country where more than 40 percent of the rural population and almost 60 percent of city dwellers had "inadequate access to food" in 2019 -- figures likely to have increased this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Women, youth and people with disabilities will be given priority access to the state farm leases, which are non-transferable and include compulsory training. More than two million South Africans lost their jobs between April and June this year as a result of lockdowns imposed to curb the spread of the coronavirus. In addition, unemployment is consistently higher among black South Africans, according to government statistics. South Africa's parliament is meanwhile debating constitutional amendments that would allow the expropriation of certain farmland without any compensation. A deadline for its decision was pushed back to the end of December 2020 due to coronavirus.

South Africa to lease state land to redress inequality

With a white ribbon for every life lost, a Johannesburg church is choosing to commemorate South Africa's victims of the coronavirus pandemic. St James Presbyterian Church caretaker Rhudzani Makuya takes his time to tie each individual bow to the church's fence.

South Africa church honours victims with white ribbons

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; S.Africa minister reprimanded for ANC trip on airforce jet 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
South Africa's defence minister has been reprimanded and will lose three months of salary after ruling party officials took an air force plane to Zimbabwe earlier this month, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday.

The African National Congress (ANC) delegation's presence aboard the flight sparked widespread criticism over the use of state resources for party business.

Their trip to Harare was for crisis talks with Zimbabwe's Zanu-PF ruling party aimed at helping tackle the country's political and economic woes.

But they tagged along aboard Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula's plane, rather than travelling privately.

She had a scheduled meeting in Zimbabwe to discuss regional issues following a recent summit of the Southern African Development Community bloc.

Mapisa-Nqakula will not receive her salary for three months from November 1, and the money will instead go to a fund to support the country's response to the coronavirus pandemic, Ramaphosa said in a statement.

The defence minister did not act "in the best interest of good governance", the statement said, adding that the incident showed "an error of judgement".

The president, who had himself dispatched the ANC delegation, also said he expected the party to reimburse the government for use of the airforce jet.

South Africa's main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), immediately called for the minister's resignation, saying the presidential reprimand was "a mere slap on the wrist" and showed that Ramaphosa does not hold his government to account.

"The DA views these transgressions as a gross violation of (Mapisa-Nqakula's) oath of office, a dereliction of duty and a complete disregard for ethical standards. Minister Mapisa-Nqakula must therefore be fired immediately," the party said in a statement.

The opposition also accused the ANC delegates of breaching lockdown regulations, as South Africa's borders are shut to control the spread of coronavirus.

S.Africa minister reprimanded for ANC trip on airforce jet South Africa's defence minister has been reprimanded and will lose three months of salary after ruling party officials took an air force plane to Zimbabwe earlier this month, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday.

S.Africa minister reprimanded for ANC trip on airforce jet South Africa's defence minister has been reprimanded and will lose three months of salary after ruling party officials took an air force plane to Zimbabwe earlier this month, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday. The African National Congress (ANC) delegation's presence aboard the flight sparked widespread criticism over the use of state resources for party business. Their trip to Harare was for crisis talks with Zimbabwe's Zanu-PF ruling party aimed at helping tackle the country's political and economic woes. But they tagged along aboard Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula's plane, rather than travelling privately. She had a scheduled meeting in Zimbabwe to discuss regional issues following a recent summit of the Southern African Development Community bloc. Mapisa-Nqakula will not receive her salary for three months from November 1, and the money will instead go to a fund to support the country's response to the coronavirus pandemic, Ramaphosa said in a statement. The defence minister did not act "in the best interest of good governance", the statement said, adding that the incident showed "an error of judgement". The president, who had himself dispatched the ANC delegation, also said he expected the party to reimburse the government for use of the airforce jet. South Africa's main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), immediately called for the minister's resignation, saying the presidential reprimand was "a mere slap on the wrist" and showed that Ramaphosa does not hold his government to account. "The DA views these transgressions as a gross violation of (Mapisa-Nqakula's) oath of office, a dereliction of duty and a complete disregard for ethical standards. Minister Mapisa-Nqakula must therefore be fired immediately," the party said in a statement. The opposition also accused the ANC delegates of breaching lockdown regulations, as South Africa's borders are shut to control the spread of coronavirus.

South Africa minister reprimanded for ANC trip on airforce jet

Officials from Botswana say they have solved the mystery of mass deaths of elephants earlier this year.

Botswana solves mass elephant deaths mystery

A TRESemme ad has called African hair 'frizzy and dull'. This is not the first Unilever brand to show a 'light skin' bias. WION's Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: Why South Africans are boycotting TRESemme

Volunteers in South Africa are feeding needy people on a sports field where stray bullets from gang warfare are a daily hazard. The group, in Lavender Hill outside Cape Town, hand out food to homeless people and children every day.

South Africa volunteers help feed homeless and children

South Africa’s economy will likely contract this year by more than the 7% previously forecast by the Treasury.

South Africa's economy to shrink by more than 7% in 2020

South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has asked Cricket South Africa's board to step aside as it investigates "many instances of maladministration and malpractice" in the crisis-ridden organisation.

SASCOC's action, which means that there is no one to run daily affairs of CSA, is another setback to the board which is in the middle of administrative chaos and facing allegations of corruption and racial discrimination.

ESPNcricinfo reported that SASCOC took the decision unanimously at a board meeting on Tuesday alleging "many instances of maladministration and malpractice at CSA which "has brought cricket into disrepute".

CSA' former CEO Thabang Monroe was fired last month following the findings of a forensic report that revealed "acts of serious misconduct".

Acting CEO Jacques Faul and president Chris Nenzani resigned last month with Kugandrie Govender replacing Faul. 
Country's elite players have also criticised CSA for postponing its AGM scheduled for September 5.

CSA also faces action from the International Cricket Council as SASCOC's action could also be seen as government interference.

In a statement, CSA objected to SASCOC's decision to suspend the board.

"CSA, including its Members' Council, does not agree with the resolution taken by SASCOC and has not had the opportunity to engage with SASCOC on various issues raised in the communication.

"In addition, CSA is taking legal advice regarding the basis on which SASCOC has sought to intervene in the business affairs of CSA. CSA does, however, commit to engaging further with SASCOC to understand its position and to find common ground with it in the best interests of cricket," said CSA.

South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has asked Cricket South Africa's board to step aside as it investigates "many instances of maladministration and malpractice" in the crisis-ridden organisation.

South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has asked Cricket South Africa's board to step aside as it investigates "many instances of maladministration and malpractice" in the crisis-ridden organisation. SASCOC's action, which means that there is no one to run daily affairs of CSA, is another setback to the board which is in the middle of administrative chaos and facing allegations of corruption and racial discrimination. ESPNcricinfo reported that SASCOC took the decision unanimously at a board meeting on Tuesday alleging "many instances of maladministration and malpractice at CSA which "has brought cricket into disrepute". CSA' former CEO Thabang Monroe was fired last month following the findings of a forensic report that revealed "acts of serious misconduct". Acting CEO Jacques Faul and president Chris Nenzani resigned last month with Kugandrie Govender replacing Faul. Country's elite players have also criticised CSA for postponing its AGM scheduled for September 5. CSA also faces action from the International Cricket Council as SASCOC's action could also be seen as government interference. In a statement, CSA objected to SASCOC's decision to suspend the board. "CSA, including its Members' Council, does not agree with the resolution taken by SASCOC and has not had the opportunity to engage with SASCOC on various issues raised in the communication. "In addition, CSA is taking legal advice regarding the basis on which SASCOC has sought to intervene in the business affairs of CSA. CSA does, however, commit to engaging further with SASCOC to understand its position and to find common ground with it in the best interests of cricket," said CSA.

South Africa's Olympic body takes control of CSA, asks its board to step aside pending investigation

south-africa

South Africa, News on South Africa, stories on South Africa, articles on South Africa, South Africa stories at Wion, South Africa news, South Africa latest news

south africa