Franchises to remain for 2008-09

South Africa's existing franchises will remain in place for at least one more season after Cricket South Africa (CSA) decided to postpone an evaluation of the system. CSA had asked a committee to assess the franchise system in time to implement any changes before the 2008-09 season.

However, the committee said it could not submit its full report until August, meaning any alterations would not take place until 2009-10. The six current franchises replaced the previous provincial teams in 2004-05, with the aim of strengthening the top tier of cricket in South Africa.

The committee was to investigate several facets of the system, including whether the standard of domestic cricket in the country had improved. The interim report from the committee to CSA's general council said the substantial presentations from various stakeholders meant more time was required to make a full assessment.

"The committee decided, after hearing the presentations and studying the written submissions, that it would need more time for further consideration of the written and oral representations," the report said. "It was also decided by the committee that to do justice to the submissions, it would be necessary to inspect some of the facilities."