The PSL’s decision to not allow journalists at stadiums is not only affecting media houses but also other important stakeholders in the game.

Despite South African cricket and rugby allowing journalists to cover their activities at their playing venues, the PSL has made them no-go areas and barricaded stadiums to deny journalists entry to do their jobs.

The PSL has not allowed journalists entry at stadiums for both league and cup matches since the country went into Level 5 lockdown due to Covid-19 in March last year.

Most journalists now rely on television to do match reports during PSL games while access to players and coaches is still highly unproductive using online portals for various reasons.

Stadium announcer Peter Mashata is also lamenting the situation of not allowing important stakeholders in the game entry at the stadiums despite the country now being on Level 1.

“The situation is bad and some people rely on PSL games to put food on top of the table for their families, and I also understand many freelancers have lost jobs because of the situation,” Mashata tells KickOff.com.

“The role of stadium announcer is very important during the match. It’s not only about announcing the starting line-up but also important information like in case there is a fire at the stadium.”