Port Elizabeth will find itself once more in the anals of cricketing history as the country prepares to celebrate 25 years since readmission into the global cricket arena next year.
It was in the Windy City in 1990, under the chair of Steve Tshete, that cricketing unity was achieved between the South African African Cricket Union and the South African Cricket Board, paving the way for readmission.
The CSA/UCBSA was officially admitted to the International Cricket Council at a meeting at Lord's on July 10, 1991.
Cricket South Africa said Thursday that in recognition of this historic milestone, it has planned numerous activities to celebrate this achievement culminating in a gala dinner on 25 July 2016.
A CSA statement said: "It is important that we should celebrate this milestone in an appropriate manner," commented CSA President, Chris Nenzani. "In particular, I would like to pay tribute to all the people who brought about our unity in cricket in such a harmonious and constructive manner. These included the Founding President of our Democracy, Nelson Mandela, our first Sports Minister, Steve Tshwete, and our first two presidents, Geoff Dakin and Krish Mackerdhuj."
A commemorative coffee table book titled "Defining Moments at the Crease" has hit the bookshelves this week, it said.
CSA will also unveil a milestones program to honour player achievements and records dating back to re-admission.
"We can joyfully reflect on a wonderful first 25 years that is worthy of being celebrated," commented CSA Chief Executive, Haroon Lorgat.
"I believe our performances on the field have lived up to the most optimistic of expectations and we can be very proud of owning some of the world's greatest players. To name just a few - Jacques Kallis, Graeme Smith, Allan Donald, Makhaya Ntini, Dale Steyn, Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers - reminds us how much our players have been loved and revered over the years.
"And off the field we can be satisfied with the way we have managed the many tough challenges we face on a daily basis to be now regarded one of the best governed sports federations in the world."
