Transformation in cricket: the black African experience

Background: The small number of black African (BA) cricketplayers progressing through the talent development pathwaysto the elite level has been a constant concern for Cricket SouthAfrica (CSA). Previous attempts to accelerate the development ofBA players have not produced the desired results. A descriptionof the barriers to development is imperative for appropriateinterventions.Objectives: To understand the career progression of BA cricketersin South Africa by investigating their and other key informants’perceptions, and identifying factors that may influence progressto the elite level.Methods: A qualitative study consisting of 23 semi-structuredinterviews with BA players who had succeeded at the senior level(n = 11), and key informants (n = 12), was conducted. Contentanalysis of the data identified 92 themes, which were thenaggregated into 12 categories.Results: Five enablers (exposure to the game, education, facilitiesand equipment, coaching and support networks), and fivebarriers (team environment, quality opportunities to compete,socio-economic factors, cricket player development pathways andleadership) were identified. Two further factors (intrapersonalattributes and targets) were identified, but the differing opinionsof the interviewees on the influence of these variables made itdifficult to classify them. Whilst all categories were perceivedto contribute in the progress of BA players to the elite level,education, support networks, quality opportunities to compete,team environment and socio-economic factors were believed tobe the most important.Conclusion: The sustainable transformation of South Africancricket appears to be not only about ensuring demographicallyrepresentative teams, but also about addressing barriers affectingprogress that may be experienced by all players. This studyhighlighted the key factors that are perceived to be specific to BAcricketers