PSL restart gets SA government approval

The South African government has approved plans by the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to resume training, according to a statement issued by the Minister of Sport, Nathi Mthethwa.

The coast is now clear for the PSL to conclude the 2019-20 season which was halted in the wake of the coronavirus over three months ago‚ on March 16.

The statement on Wednesday morning (June 24) highlighted the directions that the Minister has published and gazetted regarding government approvals of PSL plans under Covid-19 level three regulations.

The ministry’s statement read as follows:

“The plans of the Premier Soccer League (PSL) have been approved‚ considering the mitigation strategies and plans in relation to the Level 3 risk adjusted strategy in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic‚”

“The Minister of Sport‚ Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa published gazette Directions relating to COVID -19 Level 3 Regulations on 28 May 2020‚ which cover the resumption of sport activities.

“The different sport bodies are submitting their plans‚ indicating their state of readiness and the stringent health protocols they will implement in accordance with the prescribed Regulations and Directions.

“The plans have further been subject to analysis by Health authorities‚ the NICD (National Institute of Communicable Diseases) who have recommended that the measures put in place by the organisation meet and in some instances exceed the required protocol for a safe return to training and to play in a Biologically Safe Environment.”

The PSL has an Executive Committee meeting on Thursday (June 25) at which they expect to fine-tune most of the submissions to the ministry to include protocols like ensuring all players, coaches and officials and ground staff are tested for Covid-19, as well as guidelines for the wearing of masks and sanitising of equipment.