CSA congratulates Australia on victory

Cricket South Africa on Tuesday congratulated Australia on winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2009 by beating New Zealand in the final at SuperSport Park, Centurion, on Monday.

CSA CEO Gerald Majola said: "Australia gave true meaning to the name of this tournament by beating all opposition in different playing conditions and CSA extends its congratulations to them for this impressive performance.

"Theirs' was an object lesson in withstanding and applying pressure. They were, in the words of their captain, Ricky Ponting, ready for the big moments when they came up.

"CSA would also like to thank the International Cricket Council for choosing South Africa as the alternative venue for this prestigious event. It was an honour to host it, and it was wonderful working with the ICC again at this level.

"The SA Government also played a major role towards the success of the tournament with its support on many fronts and CSA is very grateful for this.

"The tournament, which was trouble-free, was another indication of South Africa's ability to host high-profile sports events.

"Congratulations must also go to the Northerns Cricket Union and to the Gauteng Cricket Board for providing international-class playing facilities so soon after the South African winter.

"The Proteas had a most disappointing tournament after their best-ever season. The process to improve their performances in knock-out competitions has already started, and CSA is confident this will produce positive results".