Newlands ‘Walk-Off’: Politics and Players

Abstract

This chapter explores the events surrounding and succeeding the Newlands’ walk-off of 1971 when both sides left the field in protest at the Government’s interference in the selection process of teams representing South Africa. It incorporates a detailed account of the day itself as well as subsequent reactions of the South African and international media in dealing with the ramifications of an event that the Government regarded as open revolt from within. The effects of this protest orchestrated by leading cricketers were felt throughout South Africa and around the world. In the short term, it probably contributed towards the sporting isolation of the country, but in the long term, it came to be seen as a stepping stone towards a policy of non-discrimination in sport.