Research on the experiences of black cricket players in Gauteng

The counselling psychologist Jeremy Bayer presents the findings from his research on the experiences of 20 black African cricket players in the transformation process from Gauteng, South Africa.

Transformation of cricket in Gauteng
These players have been or are currently involved in the transformation process. Despite financial investment for development and a large pool of black African players, not a single black African from Gauteng has been selected for the senior South African cricket team. The study provides an insight into these young black Gauteng cricketers’ perspectives of how the Gauteng Cricket Board could make transformation work more effectively.

Getting involved in cricket
The research also examined:

• factors motivating black players in Gauteng to participate in cricket, to continue or drop out
• the value of sport in health promotion
• the impact of sport in nation-building
• socio-economic development in previously disadvantaged communities

Data was collected in the form of tape recorded interviews from a pre-determined list of qualitative questions.

Key findings of the research
The key findings included:

• a dearth of support and resources such as limited practice facilities in townships and a lack of family and community support
• frustration towards Gauteng cricket buying players from other provinces and not developing home grown talent
• a belief that the Gauteng Cricket Board lacks commitment, leadership and structure
• a dissatisfaction towards selection quotas in cricket teams as they put a rift between players of different races
• a need to educate and promote cricket in black communities
• a feeling that cricket as a sport can be used as a means to unify and unite South Africans
• the mental challenges from living in poor socio-economic conditions impacting cricket performance

The study proposes a framework which includes addressing the psychological aspects of a racially integrated game and involves guidance and counselling of black players’ expectations.