The Momentum Proteas will again break out their black kit to shine a light on the issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in South Africa. This will be the second Black One-Day International. Last year, Cricket South Africa (CSA) heeded the call of President Ramaphosa to act against violence against women and children. That saw the South African women’s team wear all-black for the first time in the series decider against Pakistan.
Following the success of the event last year, the South African women will again don black in the fourth and final ODI against the West Indies woman at the Imperial Wanderers on Sunday, 6 February 2022. The Windies will also show their support against GBV by wearing black armbands.
BLACK DAY IS BACK 🖤
The #MomentumProteas will once again don their all-black kit while the West Indies will wear black armbands as the teams take a stand to End Gender-Based Violence in the 4th ODI at Imperial Wanderers #BePartOfTheChange #EndGBV pic.twitter.com/jRVZU4rVc5
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) February 3, 2022
CSA announced the news in a statement on Thursday morning, and also confirmed that the match will be broadcasted on both SuperSport and SABC.
“The encounter will carry more weight than just the result,” read the statement.
“GBV, an indefensible act that leaves a life-long psychological scar on the victim, does not discriminate. It can affect or be committed by any person regardless of their race, age, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. Most South African women and children are at risk.”
Leading by example
Both captains, Sune Luus and Stephanie Taylor also confirmed their support for the initiative.
“Black Day is very important to us and as a team, we feel strongly about the fight against GBV,” said the Momentum Proteas captain, Sune Luus.
“With the support of CSA, we hope to bring awareness to this issue that affects our country greatly. Hopefully, we can make a difference.”
“The West Indies Women stand with South Africa in their fight against GBV,” confirmed Taylor.
“GBV has also been on the rise at home and many families have been more affected since the pandemic. Women and children suffering at the hands of men. Violence in any form is never the answer.”
The West Indies currently lead their four-match ODI series 1-0, with two more encounters to go.
The next match takes place on Thursday, 3 January 2022, and will get underway at 14h00. The Black ODI on Sunday will start at 10h00.
READ MORE: Victim-centered approach a step in right direction for fight against gender-based violence