CAPE TOWN, July 7: The South African cricket board’s earnings from the television rights for the three ODIs against India in Ireland is expected to be higher than the combined income it will receive from the home series against New Zealand and West Indies later this year.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) had faced criticism for sending the national team to play India in Ireland, as many felt it denied the side a rest ahead of a busy international schedule.

Gerald Majola, the CSA chief executive officer, also confirmed that monetary gain was the main reason why South Africa wanted to host the inaugural Twenty20 World Championship.

Speaking at an information session about CSA's strategic plans for the next four years at Newlands, Majola said: “Our major income source is international television money. Last season, when India toured here, we had a fantastic year. This year, however, things will not be as good.

“It is my duty as CEO to find a way to increase our income during the lean years. That is why we fought so hard to be appointed as the hosts for the first Twenty20 World Cup tournament.” —Agencies