Jewish cricketer David Teeger has been removed as South Africa’s captain at the Under-19 World Cup over fears he will be targeted by protests related to the war in Gaza.

Teeger’s position has been under the spotlight since a row over pro-Israel comments attributed to him when he won a Jewish Rising Star award last year.

Cricket South Africa confirmed he would lead his country at this month’s tournament on home soil after a barrister examined the case, but have now reversed their position based on security advice.

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Tensions over the Palestinian conflict are running high in South Africa, which has formally accused Israel of genocide at the United Nations International Court of Justice, and there are fears the World Cup could be disrupted.

“As is the case with all such events, CSA has been receiving regular security and risk updates regarding the World Cup. We have been advised that protests related to the war in Gaza can be anticipated at the venues for the tournament,” read a statement.

“We have also been advised that they are likely to focus on the position of the SA Under-19 captain, David Teeger, and that there is a risk that they could result in conflict or even violence, including between rival groups of protestors.

“CSA has a primary duty to safeguard the interests and safety of all those involved in the World Cup and must accordingly respect the expert advice of those responsible for the safety of participants and spectators. In all the circumstances, CSA has decided that David should be relieved of the captaincy for the tournament. This is in the best interests of all the players, the SA U19 team and David himself.”

Teeger will remain part of the squad, with a stand-in skipper still to be named.