On Monday, the government gazetted the opening of stadiums to 2000 vaccinated fans, with the first game being Tuesday tonight’s FIFA World Cup qualifier between South Africa and Ethiopia.

The Proteas are currently in the UAE for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, where a 75% capacity will be permitted at the games.

The Proteas batsman, Aiden Markram, told OFM Sport the opening of stadiums will be a win-win situation.

“I wasn't even aware of that, but I saw in the past few weeks that there was talk of this happening. That's actually awesome news to hear.

“Us as players always relish playing in front of crowds and we know that the crowds in South Africa always really support us well and really love the game of cricket.

“It will be nice to have them back in the stadiums. I'm assuming that it won't be full capacity, but at least some supporters are better than none at all.

“It's a win-win for everyone. We love performing in front of them and they'll have an enjoyable time watching us perform.”

In what will be a busy summer at home, the Proteas will face India in three Tests, three One-Day Internationals, and four T20 Internationals. The men will also start their home internationals with three ODI’s against the Netherlands in November and December.

Over the same period, South Africa A will host India A in three unofficial Tests at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein.

Meanwhile, the Proteas face Australia on 23 October in their first World Cup match.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport