All domestic, schools, club and amateur cricket was called off in an attempt to fight the spread of the virus.

The news came ahead of the Momentum One-Day Cup semi-finals and the conclusion of the Four-Day Domestic Series.

When it comes to the Proteas, the team ended their poor season on a high after capturing the One-Day International series against Australia 3-0.

With an upcoming tour to the West Indies, a series against Sri Lanka and the T20 World Cup in Australia, some rest for the national players would be very welcome indeed. Taking into account many national players go and play in England during our winter, the unplanned break is actually a blessing in disguise.

Acting CEO of CSA Jacques Faul told OFM Sport that with the offseason around the corner the decision won’t make such a big impact, and he has also welcomed the national players also getting some rest.

“I think that Cricket South Africa has dealt with it in a very responsible way by canceling all cricket.

“With the impact on us, we are also very fortunate in that we don’t have any incoming tours scheduled, and we are going into our off-season and that helps a little bit. This all depends on how long the virus influences our environment.

“I think if the players can rest a little bit there will be a lot of value in it.

“Or stakeholders from the broadcasters to the sponsors have been brilliant. They also support the responsible call. That has added to the sense that we’ve got to do the right thing, especially being abnormal circumstances.

“We are probably a little protected going into the off-season, and on a daily basis, we are monitoring the developments.

“It’s also important that not just the high profile cricket and the risk around it needs to be mitigated, but on all levels.

“Even cricket that doesn’t fall under our auspicious. For example people have phoned in stating that they have a social league, and we have emphasised the importance of being responsible.”

In duo course, CSA will announce who won the domestic competitions, and there is a possibility that the top four teams could share the spoils.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport