2010 promises to be another interesting year in which politics and sport will interact in both positive and negative respects.

Although it is an Olympic Year with the Winter Games looming in Vancouver, it is unlikely to catch the protestors eye in the way that the Beijing Games did. However, civil rights groups are right to raise issues concerning infringements on civil liberties in the war against international terror.

More significant in terms of the politics of sport is the likely end to the international career of Makhaya Ntini’s career South Africa’s premier black cricketer in the modern era. His omission from the South African side at Cape Town was not taken lightly, however, it is hoped that in this non quota era of South African selection black cricketers will be selected and help to maintain the link between the country’s majority community and one of its most popular sports in the land, This is particularly important in the year that football will dominate South African sport and culture as never before.

The FIFA World Cup has managed to avoid potential powder kegs through the twin processes of qualification rounds and the tournament draw. However, it will be interesting to observe the reaction given to the footballers from the pariah state of North Korea when they play their group matches and how the dictatorial regime exploits the event for its own political capital

With respect to matters of sporting-power politics the new ICC President taking office in July will be Sharad Pawar. He is likely to push for the ICC Head Quarters to be moved from Dubal to India thus confirming the dominance of the sub continental hold on cricket. This is certain to ruffle many feathers in the game, more especially amongst the white cricketing nations.

On the domestic front pressures from the spiralling costs of London 2012 may result in political resignations though much will depend on the outcome of the looming General Election. In Wales it is hoped that politicians will recognise the opportunities granted through the hosting of the Ryder Cup. in raising the profile of the country. This should energise both sport in Wales and its role in helping to engender economic growth, strengthen identity, promote national cohesion as well as boosting “the feel-good factor.”