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EDITORIAL The AZAD CRICKET CLUB has a proud tradition of SACOS policy of non colloboration and isolation upholding the principles of non-racialism and non has produced some change. Thus this policy must collaboration. Throughout the 40 years of our exis­ be continued in all spheres of life until a just and tence the membership of our club has showed democratic society is established. SACOS slogan tremendous courage and commitment for a just "No Normal Sports in an Abnormal Society" cause. affirms that sport is neither independent of At a time when the state activity seeks to destroy society nor a primary influence upon it. non-racial sports, its no mean achievement for a truly non-racial cricket club to attain 40 years. In the past decade, many non-racial cricket clubs in We firmly oppose the "Mercenaries" who tour this the Transvaal have succumbed to the pro-govern country under false pretence. They are solely here ment forces seeking to destroy our sports. Azad to have a slice of the Apartheid cake. The South Cricket Club with its very strong tradition resisted African Cricket Unions attempt to disrupt interna­ these forces and survived to celebrate its fortieth tional cricket by bringing these "Mercenaries" will anniversary with pride and dignity. definitely tail. The international sporting world will accept nothing less than total destruction of Apart­ The dedication and commitment of players and heid before renewing any legal sporting contacts administration to the principles of South African with South Africa. Council of sports (SACOS) has made the club a forerunner in non-racial sports. The club contribu­ tion to the formation and progress of the Trans­ With the dedication and commitment of all players vaal Cricket Board is well recognised in all quar­ and administration, the club will survive to cele­ ters brate its fiftieth anniversary in a "normal" society.

A WORD FROM THE PRESIDENT

In the days when we had little support, when people thought Now in season 1982-83 we are very strong and still building. of us practically as outcasts, Azad Cricket Club was there We thank you for your support through the years and on our side with a band of committed cricketers. welcome your ongoing commitment to what we are doing. Seven years, eighty four laborious months, countless minor As your chairman, it is indeed an honour to be part of this triumphs later, Azad Cricket Club “ perseveres." This is the magnificent Club. It is with pride that I acknowledge that key ingredient to the success and survival of our cricket as we at Azad Cricket Club are totally commited to non-racial we see it. Thanks to our active members and cricketers in cricket and non-racial sport in general. Azad C.C. and the Transvaal Cricket Board, the initial com­ mitment to cricket was made, and through the years, time tested and honoured. We in Azad C.C. have been fortunate I am indebted to the founder member of the Azad C.C. and in being there to chronicle the history, tradition and passion successive generation of administrators and players who of this commitment and in expressing it throughout the are proud to be among us here today. Without Azad C.C. we province, country and abroad. would not be here in a family reunion, or writing these mes­ sages in this 40th year of our existence. I feel humble to We have made commitments as well. Beginning in 1976 with be among its ranks and for affording me the opportunity to the first letter being written and distributed to colleagues serve this illustrious Club. To those who came here after, I already on the scene in the other provinces. We have devo­ can only mention that Azad C.C. has a heritage that we can ted ourselves to exposing all the facets of our cricket. We all be proud of. have presented first rate correspondence, record breaking information and provocative insights into the cricket world, our cricket world as it has evolved. P. J, BHANA, President.

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT

It is now five years that I have been associated with the The most satisfying aspect of the splitting up of the sides club. During that time it has been my distinct pleasure in has been the introduction of the under 16 youngsters into meeting so many young and brave people. I can say without the three senior sides. Already they're doing well. The hesitation that I'm a much better person with the experience. future certainly looks very rosy. It is no wonder that once many people start an association with Azads but very few end an association with Azads. 40th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS Certainly in the South African context, there is nothing to For many seasons now, Azad Cricket Club has been con­ celebrate about. However we should never forget our past. centrating on building a strong provincial unit (The Trasvaal This club has a proud heritage and we should derive in­ Cricket Board). Many of the members have served the T.C.B. spiration out of it and be indebted to those who have set us since its inception. On many occasions we neglected our such high standards to adhere to. cricket. With the emergence of the T.C.B. as a powerful The full programme of our 40th Anniversary activities is as organisation, we have had time to build our sides again. It follows: is with pride that we can say we've got five sides. The five • Diwall Ball (Taken place already). sides are; • Presentation Function (12th March, 1983 - Lenasia Civic 8.00 p.m. (a) Azads 'A' (Playing in the First Division). • Brochure (This is it). (b) Azads 'B' (Playing in the Second Division). • Hosting of Transvaal/Western Province Match 12th, 13th, 14th March, 1983. (c) Azads 'C (Playing in the Third Division(. The presentation function will take the form of a snack/ (d) Azads under 16 (Saturday League). symposium and presentation occasion on the 12th March, 1983 at the Lenasia Civic Centre (Main Hall). (e) Azads under 12 (Saturday League). ASHOK ODHAV. t ^ a m dm i A utton a d e t

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1943/1944 N. Harjivan M. Ravjee R. Parshotum J. Bhana B. Ranchod 1944/1945 N. Harjivan K. Brijial R. Parshotum J. Bhana B. Ranchod 1945/1946 R. Manga K. Brijial R. Parshotum K. Brijial B. Deva 1946/1947 R. Manga K. Brijial N. Harjivan B. Deva D. Uka 1947/1948 N. Harjivan K. Brijial P. Parshotum B. Deva J. Vallabh 1948/1949 N. Harjivan K. Brijial P. Parshotum B. Deva J. Vallabh 1949/1950 K. Brijial C. Bhana B. Deva K. Brijial D. Uka 1950/1951 K. Brijiai D. Uka J. Vallabh D. Uka N.Ranchod 1951/1952 K. Brijial C. Bhana J. Vallabh D. Uka N. Ranchod 1952/1953 K. Brijial D. Bhana G. Nana C. Bhana K. Bhikha 1953/1954 N. Harjivan D. Bhana K. Bhikha A. Bhana K. Bhikha 1954/1955 C. Bhana D. Bhana B. Rama K. Bhikha P. Dayal 1955/1956 C. Bhana R. Ranchod B, Rama K. Bhikha P. Dayal 1956/1957 A. Bhana ‘ R. Ranchod B. Rama A. Bhana P. Dayal 1957/1958 CT Bhana M. R. Manga K. Bhikha C. Bhana D. Uka 1958/1959 C,Bhana M. R. Manga B. Rama K. Bhikha D. Uka 1959/1960 C . B h a n a M. R. Manga B. Rama C. Naran C. Bhana 1960/1961 A. Bhana / M. R. Manga B. Rama D. Uka D. Vallabh 1961/1962 1C. Bhana M. R. Manga B. Rama R. Ranchod V. Bhana 1962/1963 O, Bhana V. Bhana M. R. Manga D. Vallabh V. Bhapa 1963/1964 C. Bhana ' V. Bhana M. R. Manga D. Vallabh K. Parbhoo 1964/1965 C. Bhana V. Bhana M. R. Manga P. Dayal V. Bhana 1965/1966 A. Bhana V. Bhana M. R. Manga P. Dayal B. Mistry 1966/1967 A. Bhana V. Bhana M. R. Manga In' P. Dayal D. Vallabh 1967/1968 A. Bhana V. Bhana M. R. Manga P. Dayal V. Bhana 1968/1969 A. Bhana . V. Bhana M. R. Manga P. Dayal V. Bhana 1969/1970 A, Bhana V. Bhana M. R, Manga V.Bhana W. Muller 1970/1971 A. Bhana V. Bhana M. R. Manga V. Bhana W, Muller 1971/1972 A. Bhana V. Bhana M. R. Manga V. Bhana D. Chibba 1972/1973 1A. Bhana V. Bhana M. R. Manga V. Bhana D. Chibba 1973/1974 ' A. Bhana P. J. Bhana M. R. Manga V. Bhana P. J. Bhana 1974/1975 A. Bhana P. J. Bhana M. R. Manga P. J. Bhana W. Muller 1975/1976 A. Bhana P. J. Bhana M. R. Manga P. J. Bhana D. Shiba 1976/1977 j A. Bhana P. J. Bhana M. R. Manga 1 P. J. Bhana D. Shiba 1977/1978 I A. Bhana P. J. Bhana M. D. Uka "A” p. J. Bhana D. Shiba "B" R. J. Gopal V. Meyer 1978/1979 R. Gopal P. J. Bhana M. D. Uka "A” V. Meyer P. J. Bhana qO "B’’ A. K. P. Odhav Pravin Gopal 1979/1980 R. Gopal P. J. Bhana ^ M. D. Uka "A” N. Bhowan H. Bhowan “ B" A. K. P. Odhav S. Ravjee "C" D. Bhika A. Desai 1980/1981 P. J. Bhana C. Bhika M. D. Uka "A" H. Bhowan P. J. Bhana "B” A. K. P. Odhav C. K. Bhika "C" A. Desai D. Bhika 1981/1982 P. J. Bhana C. Bhika M, D. Uka "A" H. Bhowan R. Gopal "B" A. K. P. Odhav S. Ravjee "C" D. Bhika A, Desai 1982/1983 P. J. Bhana C. Bhika M. D. Uka “A" H. Bhowan R. Gopal „B” P. J. Bhana ’ ^ ' R, Lala "C"'A. K. P. Odhav T. Naik "D" D. Bhika A. Desai p O p u l Q f PICTURE FRAMERS & GENERAL DEALERS RAVI 290 MAIN STREET. JEPPE, JHB 614-3936 n a r e n o r a 852-7084 (RES) 852-3012 (RES) POPULAR IN PROFESSIONAL PICTURE FRAMING

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5 Lorentz Street, Asiatic Bazaar, Pretoria 0002 P.O. Box 2, Pretoria 0001 - Tel. Address: "Niranjan" Phones: Bus. 262351, 260849, 37536 Res. 743405 SECRETARY’S REPORT

It IS with great pride and pleasure that I submit this report The Club still suffers from players taking leave for studies for the 40th year brochure. The Club’s contribution to the both at home and abroad. Presently Pradeep Gopal is study­ formation and development of the Transvaal Cricket Board ing in India, Kishore Daya is studying in America, Kiran Dayal is recorded in detail elsewhere in the brochure. This con­ Uka is studying in Durban and Gonvant Goolab is studying tribution has earned the club a place in the record books of at Wits. sports in this country. Most of the previous players studying away from home have At the inception of the Board, the Club affiliated two clubs returned and are active players. of equal strength. These teams were made up of older players like Pramond Bhana, Dayal Lala, Rasik Copal, Dhiroo Chiba, It is with great regret that we have to note the early deaths Ramesh Lala, Ajit Gandabhai, Harish Bhowan, Ravindra Lala of Ravjee Govind and Arun Kara. and many new commited and dedicated players. The contribution of our treasurer Mahesh Uka remains in­ The Club has grown from having two senior teams to three valuable. senior teams, one under 16 and one under 12 in a space of With present players and administrators the future of the four years. Club looks very bright. The under 16 team has promising players in Dherma Bhika, C. Bhika, Secretary. Manesh Naran, Asit Desai, Harsad Nagin, Vijay Ambaram and a good few others. The under 12 team is still very young but Prega Vythilingam and Yazeed Tayob show great promise. Rajesh Daya has great potential amongst the youth. He is a fine left hand alrounder. Amongst the senior, the following have represented the Board at Provincial level: Harish Bhowan, Jayesh Naik, Rasik Gopal and Arun Mistry, The following played at inter district level: Pravin Gopal and Harish Uka. Narendra Lala repre­ sented Transvaal High Schools while at school. The following have assisted with administration and running of the teams: Pramod Bhana, Rasik Gopal, Ashok Odhav, Mohan Sukha, Vinod Ranchod, Dhiroo Chiba, Ajit Gandabhai and myself. The senior first team has been captained and efficiently run by Harish Bhowan for a good few years now. Similarly AshoK Odhav has captained and run the second team for a few years.

MESSAGE FROM S.A. CRICKET BOARD

On behalf of the South African Cricket Board, I am deeply As I am also the President of the Western Province Cricket honoured to congratulate the Azad Cricket Club on 40 years Board, who, like your Club stood virtually alone in the prin­ of existance within the non-racial code of sport. cipled stand on which SACOS was founded, i know that it I have been priviledged to visit Lenasia a short time ago took courage and a deep dedication to the principles that all and I am therefore deeply conscious of the strong principle human being are created equal. which in 1976, prevented the Club from joining the ranks of I reiterate that the stand of the Azad Cricket Club, which S.A.C.U, contributed so considerably to the formation of the Transvaal If one thinks back to 1976 and the delight with which many Cricket Board, is one of the great consequences, when the people changed their stance and principles as regards history of cricket in South Africa will be resolved and re­ apartheid, then only does one realize the steadfastness of corded. the members of the Azad Cricket Club. Hassan Howa, President of S.A.C.B.

V. BHANA (PATRON)

It gives me great pleasure to be associated with the Azad were rewarded by winning the Second Division League of Cricket Club officials. Men who have shown loyalty, dedica­ the Wits Cricket Union and to be promoted to the First tion and integrity to a cause which was instrumental in Division. forming the Transvaal Cricket Board. Since those struggling days the .Club has produced many The Club has a long history of struggles and non so impor­ outstanding cricketers as well as administrators. It has been tant than in the 1956/7 season when the Club was left with my priviledge to be a part of this revival both as captain and only seven playing members. But with a new blood of officer of the Club. My greatest regret has been my early players namely: D. Lala, P. Bhana, R. Ranchod, I. Gordhan, R. retirement from the game as a result of an injury at the Gopal, A. Chiba the old Club was back on its feet and on .height of my career in 1976. the way to make some very meaningful contributions to the cause of non-racial cricket. In those days one had to make I take this opportunity to thank all the officials of the Club a lot of sacrifices in order to have a full team. Credit must for their foresight and dedication to the cause of non­ be given to the late Dayal Vallabh who went out of his way racialism in sport which has now brought about a very to make the Club a force to be reckoned with. His efforts powerful T.C.B. n j ( . Ci o o p a p j & C o .

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Johannesburg SOUTH AFRICAN COUNCIL ON SPORT SOUTH AFRICAN SENIOR SCHOOLS SPORTS ASSOCIATION Four decades, that Is Indeed a long time and your Club must be congratulated for having stood the test of time, especially The South African Senior Schools Sports Association con­ when you take Into account the many trials and tribulations gratulates the AZAD Cricket Club on Its 40th anniversary. your Club must have encountered. The present and past members should be complimented on Spreading the gospel of our internationally accepted the stand they have taken to play non-raclal cricket at club brotherhood, new to the South African way of life, is'by no level. It is also heartening to note that your club has not means a small task, yet, your Club persevered to uphold succumbed to the "dangling carrot" from the other side the deep seated commitment so prevalent in all other Clubs Just merely to increase their members and give that organi­ — outside this country. sation a non-racial flavour. Your members sacrifices will bear testimony to the struggle we are all engaged in. Let May I, on behalf of all the concerned and committed people us not in the promotion of the game of cricket lose sight of the Republic extend to you our very good wishes and of those administrators that despite the numerous pres­ sincerely hope the beginning of a New Year will be not only sures from those in authority carried the banner of non- truly successful but just and rewarding. racial sport and spurned the multi-national cosmetic changes. No amount of overseas tours to this country can solve the countries isolation in international sport. It is of the con­ sidered view that everything possible should be done to make sport accessible to all. Your club has undoubtedly AZAD CRICKET CLUB provided the opportunities for the enjoyment of sport by individuals and that you serve your community to a better 40th ANNIVERSARY free society. July 1982 will be recalled as time of deep humiliation and On behalf of the Border Cricket Board i wish to congratulate resentment when the International Cricket Conference the Azad Cricket Club on the occasion of its 40th anniver­ snubbed three of the countries cricket officials. sary. The attainment of 40 years whilst still a united entity sig­ The sad reality is that nothing will change the racism atti­ nifies your sincerity and dedication in pursuing the direction tude. For South African Sport that not only is a tragedy but and ends which every true South African believes will bring the ultimate humiliation. a significant change to benefit every cricketer irrespective Let us be mindful of the fact that the Youth of today will be of descriptions and identifications used daily to separate cricketers of tomorrow. sports persons in this country. The fact that the 1977 "nor­ Yours sportswise mal sport" dispensation devised to trick even truly non- S. C. Naicker, General Secretary. racial sports bodies did not hoodwink your club is indicative of your undoubted credentials as adherents to the principles of true non-racialism. SOUTH AFRICAN NON-RACIAL OLYMPIC Your courage in the fight for open sport is a valuable contribution that should be emulated by all clubs. It is COMMITTEE significantly noted that the Transvaal Cricket Board is grow­ ing from strength to strength; I am convinced it is partly Azad’s decision not to join the bandwagon of white South through qualitative loyalty and support which you demon­ Africa's so-called "normal" cricket has now been completely strated to its cause and goals. vindicated. At the time of writing I believe the "normal" Transvaal Cricket Council has lots all its affiliates from Your resistance to the concessions of the so-called "normal Lenasia. We hope Soweto and Eldorado Park will soon sport" dispensation is a sacrifice that helped your Board to follow. stand against all odds known to humanity. Border has drawn courage from the Transvaal Cricket Board. Some might consider it wrong to accuse all the Blacks who You are fortunate to practise what you believe is morally moved over to "normal" cricket as sell-outs and stooges. right. A persistent failure to have the ability to match our Undoubtedly, there were many opportunists and many a words with actions at times leaves so many of us tragic­ naive cricketer, out of sheer honesty and enthusiasm, fol­ ally divided. It is easy to profess proudly certain sublime lowed suit. But any Black still hanging on to the bandwagon and noble principles but it is common to practise sadly the must certainly be an opportunist or one who is being very antithesis of those principles. This is not happening forced into submission. with your club. Therefore, Azad's sustained unwavering stand must be As you are marching forward unwaveringly paving the way highly commended. for an egalitarian society you have enemies. You must not White South Africa, having failed to deceive the world with seek to humiliate the enemies but work to win their under­ standing. veneering over apartheid sport, has now turend to luring international stars by offering astronomical sums of money Let this anniversary be an inspiration that will exhort you which have been accrued out of black exploitation. But to work closely with all the progressive sports bodies that resistance and opposition in Soweto has shown how easy are working for the emancipation of all the sports persons it can be to deflate even this sophisticated approach. We who are still toying with the idea of separation, multi­ hope that the recent failure of the football masquerade will racialism, multi-nationalism, etc. in sport. Let our fight for hasten the unity of all black sportsmen and 'women into one non-racialism be a substitute for all these dispensations in formidable opposition. The sooner this is achieved the their minds theoretically and in practice as a life-time sooner apartheid sport will fall. settlement for all human kind in this country. And for those who still wish to collaborate with the apart­ With powerful clubs like your club in South Africa it can heid rulers and their sports administrators may I conclude be easily predicted that by the time your 50th anniversary by echoing the words of Benjamin Franklin: is celebrated, the society will be normal. Long live AZAD. "They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little Fotho Albert Tyulu safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.” General Secretary Border Cricket Board Sam Ramsamy, London, 10 September, 1982.

TO THOSE THAT UNDERSTAND. NO EXPLANATION IS NECESSARY TO THOSE THAT DON’T UNDERSTAND. NO EXPLANATION IS POSSIBLE. (Graffiti on a Northern Ireland Wall) Azad Cricket Club’s Contribution to Non-Racial Cricket in the Transvaai-1976

On the 23rd September, 1976, the Federal Information In February 1977 we began campaigning for an alternative Council of the Nationalist Party on behalf of the then Prime non racial cricket body. Azad players and officials went Minister B. J. Vorster, issued a statement regarding the personally to each and every former S.A.C.B.O.C. club and future sports policy for South Africa, Basically what the urged them to play In the new cricket body. In September policy amounted to was this: fa) It was a policy of multi- 1977, the Transvaal Cricket Board was formed. The following nationalism; (b) Decision making left to the individual officials were elected: governing bodies; fc) However, due regard still had to be given to existing iaws and this therefore meant no change Hon. President: Mr. P. Peffer in apartheid laws e.g. no liquor to be served to members of Hon. Vice President: Mr. I. Bundwini, Dr. A. Asvat other race groups in the same room and also no change in Hon. Secretary: Mr. A.G. Gandabhai the permit system. Part of the policy says thot piayers are Treasurer: Mr. A. Mangera not aliowed to join different race group clubs. It is for this Secretary: Mr. A. Hassen reason that the sports policy has been changed, namely to Sincerity of conviction and purity of motive will surely give all race groups the opportunity to play against each gain the day, and even a small minority, armed with these other at club level. Members of each and every population is surely destined to prevail against all odds. group have to join their own clubs. The provincial boards — VIVEKANANDA have to apply for the necessary permits. (Letter Dated 19th November, 1976) The Witwatersrand Cricket Union, an affiliate of the Trans­ S.A.C.B.O.C. Affiliates vaal Cricket Federation, which together with the White Honorary Secretary Transvaal Cricket Union were responsible for the implemen­ tation of the so calied normal cricket in the Republic in Dear Sir, 1976. The foilowing incidences took place in inmplementing We are an affiliate of Witwatersrand Cricket Union which, so called "normal cricket". in turn, is an affiliate of Transvaal Cricket Federation. We have, as per our attached letters to Witwatersrand 1. Participation of S.A. in the Gillette Cuo competition Cricket Union, withdrawn from further participation in so- despite strong opposition by the S.A.C.B.O.C. called "normal cricket” because there will never be satis­ 2. Statement by Mr. Billy Woodin denying any knowledge factory answers to the discrepancies mentioned in these of a multi-racial set up. letters. 3. Refusal bv Balfour Park to play Mr. Habane and this The progress thus far has proved that the present cricket is being confirmed as correct policy by the Minister of being played under the Government’s Multinational Policy Sport. as set out in the letter dated 22nd October 1976 sent to 4. Refusal by Balfour Park Club to serve drinks to the Crescent Cricket Club by the Department of Sport, a copy Crescent players in their bars. of which is attached. 5. Other provinces not reaching an agreement in implemen­ In the Transvaal, some S.A.C.B.O.C. officials and players ting normal cricket thus depriving our S.A.C.B.C. players have accepted this fultinational set-up in the guise of of provincial level cricket. "normal cricket” at any cost. Players and officials alike who After many discussions at our Club meetinos. plavers and continued to adhere to S.A.C.B.O.C. principle are compelled officials felt that the Club’s survival was at stake. The ques­ by the upsurge of this new-found bluff in the guise of tion was whether to plav in this so called "normal cricket" normal cricket to withdraw lest they too lend credibility to set up or not. On the 26th October. 1976, the Azad Cricket this new set-up. Club wrote to the Witwatersrand Cricket Union asking for The statement made by the Jeppe Old Boys Cricket Club (a clarification on the above incidents and refused to partici­ white club affiliated to the Transvaal Cricket Union) that pate in any fixtures until absolute clarification was received. they are playing under the Government’s Multinational We received a reply advising us of our withdrawal from Policy. Is this not tantamount to a total contradiction of League competition but no explanation to the various S.A.C.B.O.C.’s principles of normal multiracial cricket as we incidences which were taking place!! We wrote back on the have always understood them to be? In view of claim made 10th November 1976 asking for an urgent council meeting that "normal cricket" has been established in the Transvaal, of the Witwatersrand Cricket Union to discuss and clarify should not the bridge committed by Jeppe Old Boys Cricket issues which contradicted all assurances given at the sum­ Club be considered serious enough to be challenged by Mr. mit conference and by the nine men motivating committee Varachia. He is both the Chairman of the Nineman Motiva­ in January 1976 ting Committee and also is the Chairman of the Transvaal The Azad Cricket Club wrote the following letter to all Cricket Federation which body together with the Transvaal S.A.C.B.O.C. affiliates: Cricket Union (parent body of Jeppe Old Boys Cricket Club) * Letter dated 19/11/1976. are responsible for the establishment of so-called "normal cricket” in the Transvaal. We received the following reply from Witwatersrand Cricket Union: In view of the above, it is our contention that S.A.C.B.O.C. * Letter dated 23/12/1976. and ali its unit down to the very last club and cricketer, Our reply to the above letter: should take stock of themselves and subject the entire * Letter dated 15/1/1977. situation to a critical review and analyse so that we may Reply to our letter from the Witwatersrand Cricket Union: forever clear the air which is pragment with pitfalls and uncertainty. Already S.A.C.B.O.C., its provincial units and * Letter dated 17/2/1977. clubs stand divided into different camps simply because of The Club felt that due to all the unsatisfactory answers the lack of proper, democratic and critical discussion in the received from the Witwatersrand Cricket Union and our full knowledge of the authentic facts pertaining to the unconstitutional suspension from the Union, we should Issue situation. a press statement. We issued the following: We believe therefore that it Is the duty and responsibility of * Press statement. of all units and clubs to refrain from participation in such Azad Cricket Ciub remained in the cricket wilderness from set-ups until such time as total clarification is forthcoming October 1976 to January 1977. The Club played a few in a joint statement by all parties involved in the approval friendlies with Potchefstroom United C.C. (who also refused and implementation of "normal cricket” . to play in the so called “ normal cricket”). We felt that an Thanking you. alternative cricket board should be founded. Many Clubs Yours in Sport, continued to play in the Transvaal Cricket Union although P. J. Bhana they were very dissatisfied but had nowhere else to play. Hon. Secretary (Letter Dated 23 December 1976) The Secretary Our dismay and. in fact, our disgust at the arbitrary actions Azad Cricket Club of the officials responsible for such a state of affairs stems P.O. Box 42060 from the fact that we desired the opportunity of discussing Fordsburg 2033 the entire issue of "Normal Cricket" at full Council level Dear Sir, in order to fully table our objections to Multinational Cricket which is being offered in the guise of “ Normal Cricket". In We acknowledge receipt of your letter dated the 10th this regard, we need substantiate our contention no further November, 1976. Mnfk to /e fe r you to paragraphs 3 and 4 of our letter We wish to inform you that at an Executive Committee noth November 1976) pertaining to correspondence from Meeting of this Union held on the 9th December 1976 Sports and Recreation (22nd October specially convened to discuss your letter, it was resolved 1976), to the Crescent Cricket Club. that the following points should be brought to vour The contempt with which this important request by our Club attention. ^ has been handled by some officials and the Executive can '' made a request, as per your letter dated only be dismissed with the disgust and abhorrance which it 26.10.76, to be withdrawn from the league competition deseives. It is also needless to mention that the constitu­ tor reasons stipulated in your letter. tional requirements have also been tossed overboard inso­ 2. That before this Union could notify the Transvaal Cricket far as Clause 13(b), pertaining to the functions of the Union of your decision to withdraw from the league Executive Committee are concerned. competition, your secretary had already conveyed to that body your club's decision. (5n the question of our Club's withdrawal, it appears obvious that facts have been misconstrued and misinterpreted. Our 3. That with regard to your request, in your letter of the letter of the 26th October. 1976 states that because of 10th November, 1976, for a Council Meeting of this circumsances outlined in that letter, circumstances which Union we apologise for the delay In attending to the made the establishment of "Normal Cricket" suspect, our matter as the chairman of the Union was out of town Club could no longer “ continue participating in the present for a couple of weeks at the time of us receiving your fixture, until such time that, absolute clarity is forthcoming letter. The Executive Committee of this Union has de­ m a form of a detailed statement from the Motivating cided that no purpose will be served in calling up a Committee, accepted and ratified by each of the National Council Meeting as this Union is not In a position to Cricket Bodies” . The Transvaal Cricket Union were notified give any further clarification on the Issues involved In terms of rules submitted to our Club by that Union for a that what has already been given at two meetings of specific fixture against Primrose on the 31st October 1976, the Union where your club was present and also at the in order to enable our Club to fully discuss the matter at Transvaal Cricket Federation Meeting where your club's a meeting of the Witwatersrand Cricket Union. chairman was present, and also in various press state­ ments released by the chairman of SACBOC and the We cannot accept that the absence of the Chairman, Mr. R. Nine Men Motivating Committee. Garda, made it impossible to convene a meeting of the 4. That cricket in the Transvaal is being played in accor­ Union. Possibly this could have delayed the meeting a few dance with the decision taken at the Annual General weeks, but to suddenly decide against the holding of such Meeting of the Transvaal Cricket Federation in Septem­ a meeting and take the discussion at an Executive Meeting ber. because it is claimed that the calling-up of a Council Meet­ 5. That normal cricket is being played in all provinces ing will serve no purpose is incomprehensible to us. except W. Province with the blessing of the South Contrary to the claim in your letter (item 4). cricket in the African Cricket Board of Control. Transvaal is not being played in accordance with any de­ 6. That the Executive Committee of this Union takes a very cision taken at the Annual General Meeting of the Transvaal serious view of the fact that your club has circulated Cricket Federation. It is also our contention that Article throughout the country private correspondence entered 4(b) and (c) of the South African Cricket Board of Control into between this Union and your club. Constitution are also not being compiled with insofar as 7. That your club's activities in an attempt to disrupt the the existing implementation of Multinational Cricket is smooth running of cricket throughout the country, as per concerned. In this regard, we refer you to letter from the your letter of the -9th November. 1976, addressed to all Department of Sports and Recreation (22nd October 1976) SACBOC affiliates, is considered as an affront to the as well as to the Gillette Cup Competition and the state- Union in that as a member of this Union you had no nrients by Jeppe Old Boys Cricket Club and the late Mr, right in engaging in such an activity without the approval Billy Woodin to the effect that they are participating in of this Union. compliance with the Government's Multi-National Sports 8. That the Executive Committee of this Union has unani­ Policy. mously agreed in the decision to warn your club in Items 6. 7, 8 and 9 of your letter refer to my Club’s circula­ disrupting the playing of cricket or circulation of corres­ tion of correspondence between ourselves as well as other pondence between this Union and your club will be material relating to “ Normal Cricket" to various clubs viewed in a very serious light and would definitely within S.A.C.B.O.C. for information purposes. It would ap­ result in stronger action being taken against your club. pear that the Executive Committee interprets this action on 9. That your club's activities in an attempt to disrupt our part as disruptive and an affornt to the Witwatersrand "normal" cricket have been reported to our parent body Cricket Union and warns of possible stronger action being the Transvaal Cricket Federation and copies of all taken against our Club. correspondence pertaining to this subject have been In this regard, may we respectfully draw your attention to forwarded to that body. the following; Yours faithfully (i) The Azad Cricket Club (established 1943 has been an WITWATERSRAND CRICKET UNION affiliate for the whole of its 33 (thirty-three) years of R. Khota, Hon. Secretary existence of the Witwatersrand Cricket Union (estab­ lished 1930). It has both enjoyed and suffered the (Letter Dated 15th January, 1977) fluctuation of cricketing fortunes of its parent body The Secretary for these many years. It has always willingly contribu­ Witwatersrand Cricket Union ted to the administrative machinery and to other de­ P.O. Box 42102 velopments of its parent body and of the T.C.F. and Fordsburg S.A.C.B.O.C. Our Club has always zealously upheld all 2033 the time, honoured principles of cricket and sports Dear Sir, generally, as expounded from time to time by top-level Your Registered Letter dated 23rd December, 1976. administrators in S.A.C.B.O.C. The Club has always re­ We note, with dismay, that you have found it expedient to spected the dignity of those democratic principles of convene a meeting of the Executive Committee for the administration which made S.A.C.B.O.C.. T.C.F. and purpose of discussing our letter dated 10th November 1976 Wits, into the kind of formidable institution they be­ and by-passing the necessity of convening a Council Meeting came. Our Club, having imbibed of the wisdom of when our abovementioned letter specifically requested an these great institution considers itself extremely for- urgent Council Meeting. 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To the officials and players of the Azad Cricket Club. name Thames was no longer representative of the member­ Allow me first of all to say how privileged I feel, to be able ship. to present a message for your brochure. The club has gone from strength to strength and for the On behalf of the Riverlea Cricket Club I wish to congratulate first time in the history of the club, the club has affiliated your club on its fortieth anniversary. Also, we wish to com- two teams to the T.C.B. piiment you on your principled stand. Presently we boast a membership of thirty three active The Riverlea Cricket Club was established in the early players. seventies to cater for the cricket needs of the high school Since the inception of the T.C.B. it has been a privilege for boys. Originally the teams name would have been Riverlea us to play against a team like Azad whose principles we High School old boys club. However, the name did not stick. will always admire. In 1977 the team changed its name to Thames Cricket Club We trust that we will also be able to boast with such a long The name change came about as a result of the players existance and adhere to the principles of non-racialism, as in association with the Thames Sporting Club. The Thames the case of Azad. Sp^orting Club envisaged catering for as many codes as pos­ Our good wishes to the Azad Club. May your team go from sible I must' add that the "affairs" of the different codes strength to strength. were administrated independently. Yours in sport. At he A.G.M. of the club, last year, it was decided to change R. G. Vergie, Chairman. the name of the club back to Riverlea Cricket Club, as the 23rd September, Johannesburg.

TRANSVAAL CRICKET BOARD -1977 TO 1983

The Transvaal Cricket Board was formed on the 21st August 1977 in the wake of "normal cricket” under the guise of the being overcome and the same commitment still prevails which has resulted in the teams being flown to the venues government's multi-national sports policy, which states: instead of facing long and arduous trips by road. That the sportsmen and sportswomen of Whites, Coloureds, Indians and Blacks belong to their own clubs and control and The Board has been unsuccessful in securing substancial arrange their own sports matters.” sponsorship and in 1979 100 letters were written to various companies seeking sponsorship and the only response was The main reasons at that time were: from Castrol S.A. (Pty) Ltd. who attached a cheque for R5,00 1. Participation of South African XI in Gillette Cup com­ (five rands only). Needless to say the cheque was returned. petitions. The S.A. Cricket Board has secured sponsorship from United 2. Cricket games in White areas were played under permit. Tobacco Company to the tune of R100 000,00 for the Benson 3. Jeppe Old Boys refused to consider applications by three and Hedges Cup LJnited Overs Competition. Black cricketers because "We are a very conservative The Board had its best season during 1981/2 by finishing Club and cannot contravene officially stated government second in the “ A" Section Howa Bowl and narrowly losing policy." in the "B" Section Booly Trophy to enter the finals of the 4. Refusal by Balfour Park Cricket Club to play Mr. Habane competition. and this being confirmed as correct by the Minister of At the time of inception the Board was not allocated grounds Sport. in Lenasia and in spite of the fact that the Board had a sub­ 5. Refusal by Balfour Park Cricket Club to serve drinks to stantial amount of teams from Lenasia affiliated to it during the Crescent Cricket Club players in their pub. the 1981/2 season, pleas for allocation fell on deaf ears and 6. Schools cricket remaining strictly separate. finally in November 1981 the Board “ invaded" a few fields but thereafter took total control of all the fields. This action 7. Inadequate cricket facilities in so-called “ Black" areas. resulted in the demise of T.C.C. "influence" in Lenasia and From information received, only two clubs, i.e. Azad Cricket forced the Johannesburg City Council to allocate the fields Club and Potchefstroom United Cricket Club, in the Trans­ to the Board for the 1982/3 season. vaal did not participate in "normal" cricket during the season Facilities such as grounds have and are being used to force 1975/6. Natal and E.P. cricket units participated during that non-racial sports bodies into a certain line of thinking and season but withdrew thereafter. W. Province decided against action. The Johannesburg City Council showed its hand during participation but certain clubs and individuals partcipated. the 1978/9 season when it attempted to “ hi-jack" one of the The Board, under the leadership of Mr. P. Peffer began its grounds ailocated to the Board and to give it to the T.C.C. first season with the following teams: Azad C.C., Burma We all know that the "hi-jack" failed because our players Lads C.C., Zulfikaars C.C., Ermelo C.C., Vaal United C.C., were prepared "to stand up and be counted.” Crescents C.C., Protea C.C., Thistles C.C., Potchefstroom The Johannesburg City Council did not prepare the Lenasia United C.C., and College C.C. It has now built its member­ fields during 1981/2 season in spite of repeated requests, ship up to the following: but the teams, knowing the circumstances, willingly carried Total teams: Senior 45; Junior 18. on playing, putting the cause ahead of decent pitches. The fact that the City Council failed to cut the heavy grass Sub unions: 1. Transvaal High Schools;2. S. T. Primary at Newlands for the inter-provincial fixture between Trans­ Schools; 3. E. T. Cricket Board; 4. E. T. Cricket Association. vaal and Natal on the 4th January, 1980 indicates the pre­ The Board was one of the founder members of the S.A. vailing attitude of the City Council towards the Board. Most Cricket Board whose inauguration meeting was held in of the grounds lack decent shower and change room facili­ Johannesburg on the 13th November, 1977. It was confirmed ties. Repeated complaints have been to no avail. at the meeting that the units affiliated represented 85% of The Board also mounted a campaign against the renaming former S.A. Cricket Board of Control players. of the Lenasia Stadium to M. R. Varachia Stadium and were With no monies in its coffers, the T.C.B. participated in the quite happy that only a handful of spectators attended the "A ” section Inter-Provincial League on a home and away inaugural match played there. This ciearly indicated where basis and sent a "B" team to Kimberley to participate in the the sympathies of the majority of the people of Lenasia S.A.C.B. "B" tournament. The commitment of the Board stood and stili stands. officials and teams that year saw the financial burdens Ajit B. Gandabhai, Secretary, Transvaal Cricket Board,

QUOTATIONS Do not dispise your situation. In it you must act, suffer and eventually conquer. MESSAGE FROM SWARAJ SPORTING FOOTBALL CLUB On this occasion of your 40th Anniversary, Swaraj Sporting quo. Firstly we have to make an honest endeavour to get rid Club extends its warmest greetings to members and friends of the infighting and power struggle that weaken our or- of the Azad Cricket Club. The work that Azad Cricket Club organisations. have been doing is both tremendous and a necessity at this We have, through our social and sporting activities, to point in time. This is so because of the various forces at educate the masses to believe that total unity can be work militating against the establishment of a normal achieved. society. We have discovered too that our salvation does not lie in In the struggle against racialism in sport, one has to make the hands of the outside world. We have to rely on our own sacrifices and every such commitment becomes a step work and have a duty to perform towards our children. towards a normal South African community free of race We must educate our players to play their full role in the prejudice and inequality. Sport should be used as a vehicle liberatory struggle in their sports clubs, trade unions, com­ towards developing a better understanding of one’s im­ munity, civic, youth and student organisations. We have mediate community, achieving comraderie as well as for always said "normal" sport cannot be played in an abnormal physical and mental wellbeing. society. It is our historic task to help change this abnormal For too long now, the oppressed people of this country have society. been divided and have therefore remained at a disadvantage In conclusion once again congratulations to you on your 40th politically and socially. We believe that we as sportmen have Anniversary. an important role to plan strategies and change the status S. Sukha, Secretary, Swaraj Sporting Soccer Club.

MESSAGE FROM MR. AHMED MANGERA - PRESIDENT, TRANSVAAL CRICKET BOARD It is no mean task for a non-racial club to have existed for that any attempt to diverse these struggles for a real and 40 years especially in South Africa, when stringent racial fundamental change in sport from that of the struggle for laws of the country demote us to be the underprivileged full political rights can never succeed and will lead to a non-citizen in the land of our birth, laws that make mere further cosmetic change. existence intolerable for the majority of the Black people. The Transvaal Cricket Board feels proud to have your Club The Transvaal Cricket Board ardently believe in the require­ as an affiliate and takes the opportunity to offer its con­ ment of the situation where sports must be played on a gratulations on your attaining that rare 40 years of existance non-racial basis in a non-racial society and thus ensuring and wishes the Club every success. that the principle of non-racialism and the equality of man. It is at this time that tribute has to be paid especially to The principle of non-discrimination and the aspiration of your past officials and members for the sacrifice, dedication every individual born in this country to be a full citizen are and commitments in the formation of a Club with aims and non-negotiable fundamental matters. It also accepts that all objectives of which you can be justly proud. This is evident the disabilities we suffer in every aspect in our lives have in your Club’s history of disregard for sectionalism and confirmed that we are denied our basic political rights and biased and its pursuance of the ideal on non-racialism.

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The South African Cricket Union, The South African Rugby Board, South A fri­ can National Olympic Committee, AM Bacher, Danie Craven, Nationalist Party etc etc have all missed a very important point. They are all under the impression (or are they?) that we want to play sport with them and then get them into the in­ ternational arena. Furthermore, they think that international tours to this country will assist them in getting them international acceptance and respectabi­ lity. Also they persist in propagating that international tours to this country are VERY necessary in assisting the BLACKS in this country.

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Visit us at the S 200 SOUTH MALL ORIENTAL PLAZA ORIENTAL PLAZA MAIN ROAD FORDSBURG JOHANNESBURG P.O. BOX 42314 FORDSBURG 2033 PHONE 838-1247 Wishing Azad Cricket Club EMERGENCY 838-5169 all the Best for the Future

Collection Number: AG3403 Collection Name: Non-racial Sports History Project, Transvaal

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