Cricket South Africa (CSA) has embraced a more adaptable approach to fitness standards for both male and female athletes, allowing players failing to meet certain criteria to still play at the discretion of national coaches. While CSA no longer rigidly enforces the completion of a two-kilometer run within a specified time or adherence to recommended skinfold measures, a document shared with players underlines the "strong recommendation" that those not meeting minimum fitness levels "should not take the field in an official match."

The authority to determine a player's participation rests with the respective coaches, namely Rob Walter for the men's white-ball team, Shukri Conrad for the men's red-ball team, and Hilton Moreeng for the women's team.

Enoch Nkwe, CSA's Director of Cricket, explained the change as a response to evolving needs. "We had a medical conference in June and we decided to allow the medical team to work out a better way forward," he shared with ESPNcricinfo. The move reflects CSA's recognition of the need for flexibility, placing trust in coaches' decision-making capacities due to their familiarity with the team's environment.

This policy revision follows instances from last year where key players such as former captain Dane van Niekerk, batter Lizelle Lee, and bowler Sisanda Magala were sidelined due to fitness criteria non-compliance. Acknowledging that the selectors have the discretion to assess a player's fitness on a case-by-case basis, the new approach aims to prevent the undue sidelining of players due to strict adherence to metrics.

The "fit-to-play" standards for the 2023-24 season remain unchanged for both men and women. Male players are expected to complete a two-kilometer run within 8.30 minutes and maintain skinfold measurements of 85mm or less. Women have a parallel standard, requiring completion within 9.30 minutes and skinfolds under 100mm. While male provincial players share the international standard, their female counterparts are allowed some leniency, with a time frame of 10.15 minutes and skinfolds below 120mm.

CSA's initiative extends to an "elite standard" where players accomplishing the run in under 7.45 minutes (men) and under 9.00 minutes (women) are recognized. While CSA seeks to encourage players to aim for excellence, there is no information on any accompanying incentives for achieving the elite status.

Players will undergo fitness evaluations twice a season, with one assessment prior to the September commencement and the other mid-season, spanning December to January. The prescribed test recommends a warm-up involving ten minutes of running and dynamic stretching, allowing walking breaks during the trial. The stipulation mandates outdoor completion, preferably on an athletic track, precluding indoor or treadmill running.

The overhaul in CSA's fitness standards underscores a commitment to fostering an environment of growth and performance excellence, setting a fresh precedent in player assessment protocols.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]