The Banyana Banyana players have decided to boycott their international friendly send-off match against Botswana on Sunday. The CAF WAFCON winners were scheduled to take on their Botswana counterparts in their last friendly before they go to the FIFA World Cup.

But the team has now decided against taking part in the match due to various issues. The players have questioned the choice of the Tsakane stadium which has been banned twice by the PSL this season alone. The players fear that they could suffer injuries that could see them miss out on a World Cup spot.

WHY BANYANA BANYANA BOYCOTT THEIR FRIENDLY MATCH

Their grievances also include bonuses that they want SAFA to commit to.

Each player is guaranteed R 570 000 from FIFA for playing a part in the competition. SAFA has also been allocated R 30 million to help prepare the squad.

The players want the association to also pay bonuses outside of the FIFA Bonuses. Something that the Association isn’t prepared to do.

SPORTS MINISTER TO INTERVENE?

Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa has also addressed the issue and promised to meet the players on Tuesday.

“I have been in contact with the President of SAFA, Dr Danny Jordaan and have received written communication from the SAPFU. In the meantime, I urge the team to be focused on the major task that lies ahead,” said Kodwa.

“They must take every opportunity to prepare to participate and display their immense skill and talent in one of the biggest sporting showcases in the world, the FIFA World Cup.

“Banyana Banyana have endeared themselves to the South African Nation and continent. They have also been great sports ambassadors that inspire so many in the sporting fraternity,” he added.