CSA's members' council have u-turned on their decision not to recognise the nine-member interim board imposed by the country's sports minister, Nathi Mthethwa, and have agreed to work with the temporary body. That means CSA will avoid a sanction from Mthethwa, which could have resulted in it being stripped of status as the governing body of cricket in South Africa, and having its funding withdrawn.
In the immediate term, it ensures the national men's series against England, which starts on November 27, is safe. England are due to arrive in South Africa on Tuesday to begin a 10-day quarantine period. Though the tour was green-lit by government, uncertainty over CSA's status meant that there were some concerns the administrative bungling could have on-field effects. Provided Mthethwa is not needed to intervene in the coming months, series against Sri Lanka, Australia and Pakistan will also be able to go ahead as planned, while the women's team's schedule is also expected soon.
While CSA has escaped ministerial interference, the board may not be out of the international spotlight. The members' council, or any other department of CSA, could yet lodge a complaint with the ICC, citing government interference over the interim board, which could result in further action. Mthethwa has kept the ICC abreast of all his communication with CSA.
More to follow...