DESPITE their 119-run defeat to Pakistan Women, the participation of the Proteas Women in the Black Day One-Day International (ODI) at the Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium on Sunday, March 1, was impactful and served its purpose.

The ICC Women’s Championship ODI, which saw Proteas Women secure a 2–1 series win, was part of the annual Black Day fixture. On this day, the national team proudly wears a special edition black kit with a touch of purple to indicate their solidarity with women across the country and around the world by raising awareness and funds in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).

Hosted under this year’s theme of Brave in Black, the Proteas also called on fans and the cricket fraternity to join the movement by wearing black and purple, symbolising resilience and unity against GBV. At half-time, a pledge was signed by fans of the game with members of The Hope Foundation staging a protest on the field.

“This was the perfect opportunity to raise awareness and get the world talking about gender-based violence and femicide,” said The Hope Foundation leader and GBV survivor Vanessa Samuel Chetty.

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She said by coming onto the field they wanted to get people talking about the scourge that affects both men and women. “Sixteen days is not enough to address the problem that is present 365 days of the year,” said Samuel Chetty.

“I know from my own experience as a GBV survivor that it is a lonely and dark space. By going out onto the field with the world watching we were showing support and solidarity with survivors, by saying that you are not alone and people are becoming more aware.”

Following the warm reception and the support that the campaign gained within the cricket fraternity, Samuel Chetty called on other sporting codes to join the movement.

“We need to get more and more people talking about GBV. A number of men have joined the movement which means that it does not only affect women,” said Samuel Chetty. “This should be a citizen-led initiative and a 365-days response is needed to fight war on GBV.”

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Apart from the GBV activism, the in-stadia experience featured a multicultural performance by the local Ulundi-based dance group, Umshoshaphansi. CSA partners Powerfleet also activated their new My Panic product, a personal panic button on your phone.

Fans were encouraged to arrive early, dress in black with a touch of purple, and be part of a match that represented far more than cricket – a bold statement of solidarity.

Also seen at the game were:

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