Tag: Cape Cobras

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Kyle Simmonds Crowned Overall Division 1 SACA MVP

The 2025/26 domestic cricket season concludes with Western Province all-rounder Kyle Simmonds named Division 1 Overall SACA MVP. Simmonds earned…

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Liam Alder Named Overall SACA MVP for Domestic Division 2

Following the completion of all domestic fixtures, Liam Alder of the Garden Route Badgers finished at the top of the…

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TWELVE YEARS OF RESEARCH-BASED PLAYER SERVICE

Over the past 12 years, the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) has cemented its dedication to evidence-based practice through a…

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FRYLINCK BLASTS DOLPHINS TO THRILLING WIN

Robbie Frylinck struck two sixes from the final two deliveries to help the Hollywoodbets Dolphins to close the gap on the top two in the Momentum One-Day Cup with a thrilling three-wicket final-ball win over the World Sports Betting Cape Cobras in Paarl on Wednesday.

The Standard Bank Proteas all-rounder, who earlier took three wickets, held his nerve facing up to the inexperienced Ferisco Adams as the visitors made heavy weather towards the end of a 290-run chase at Eurolux Boland Park.

They should have cruised to victory after a supreme 161-run opening stand between Sarel Erwee and Morne van Wyk.

Veteran Van Wyk recorded the 24th century of his career after a constructive 107 (137 balls, 10 fours, 1 six), while fellow opener Erwee clubbed 80 (69 balls, 9 fours, 2 sixes).

The pair had left their side in a powerful position and they were on 240 for three at the end of 43 overs – with 50 needed from seven overs.

However, Adams (2/69) then removed Sibonelo Makhanya (19) and Calvin Savage (3), with George Linde (2/48) starting the slide by removing Van Wyk and Andile Phehlukwayo (20) taken out by Mthiwekhaya Nabe (1/46), leaving the Dolphins in a state of panic.

They still needed 13 from the final six balls and Frylinck kept his cool with 14 off six deliveries to take the Dolphins to within a point of the Cobras and Multiply Titans at the summit.

Earlier, it was JP Duminy who led from the front as the home side amassed 289 for six.

The captain plundered 86 (66 balls, 6 fours, 2 sixes), with Pieter Malan hitting 62 (88 balls, 5 fours).

Frylinck was the pick of the Dolphins bowlers, taking three for 44, and ended as their star man at the end after his big-hitting took them over the line.

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NO RESOLUTION OF COBRAS PLAYERS AND COACH DISPUTE

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) today confirmed that the Cape Cobras players’ dispute relating to their grievance against the Cape Cobras coach, Paul Adams, has not been resolved.

The players, SACA and the Franchise had agreed at the conciliation meeting held at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) on 18 October 2016 to a fourteen (14) day extension period to give them a further opportunity to resolve the issues around the coach.

“SACA and the players are disappointed by the Franchise’s response to our proposals on a process which we believe would have resolved the matter once and for all”, said Tony Irish, chief executive of SACA. “We had proposed a process for an independent cricket person to monitor and assess the coach’s situation on the ground within the team over a three (3) week period and thereafter to make a recommendation as to what should happen with the coaching situation. His recommendation would be accepted by all, and binding on the players, SACA and the Franchise, and it would dispose of the current dispute”, said Irish. “The Franchise has however rejected the proposal out of hand without proposing any alternative, despite having indicated to us that they were in favour of some form of monitoring.”

“It is very obvious that the Franchise team is in disarray and the Cobras are currently rooted to the bottom of the Sunfoil Series log. In addition Alan Dawson, brought in as the convenor of selectors in an to attempt to beef up the structures around the coach, has now resigned citing that he believes it is impossible to work in an environment in which there is a fundamental problem between players and coach. The most frustrating aspect is that it appears that the board of the Franchise simply refuses to acknowledge that there is actually a problem at all, despite everything that has happened, and is now happening, around it”, said Irish.

SACA will seek a certificate of outcome from the CCMA confirming that the dispute has not been resolved. The issuing of this certificate will enable players to embark on lawful and protected industrial action (such as a strike), following proper notice to be given, should the players elect to go this route.”

“Any kind of industrial action is always a very last resort for players and we hope it doesn’t come to that”, said Irish. “However the players have been asking the Franchise to properly address this issue for many months, but to no avail, and have exhausted every constructive process available to them with the Franchise. We will now seek CSA’s assistance and intervention before considering what further steps to take.”

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CCMA CONCILIATION MEETING ON CAPE COBRAS PLAYERS AND HEAD COACH ISSUE

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA), Cape Cobras players and members of the board of the Cape Cobras Franchise appeared at a conciliation process meeting held at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) in Cape Town today. The conciliation meeting was held to attempt to resolve the grievance between the majority of the Cobras players and the Cobras head coach, Paul Adams.

“Some pretty forthright discussions took place between the parties at today’s meeting before the Commissioner,” said Tony Irish, chief executive of SACA. “It may well be the first time that players and board members have exchanged such frank views on this issue.”

It was agreed by the parties that the conciliation process be extended by fourteen (14) days until 1st November 2016 to give SACA, the players and the franchise an opportunity to try to agree a clear process to further monitor, assess and address the situation on the ground.

“The positive” continued Irish, “is that the parties have given themselves a clear two week period to come up with a mechanism which will hopefully finally resolve this dispute.”

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CAPE COBRAS PLAYERS GRIEVANCE REFERRED TO THE CCMA

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) confirmed today that it has referred the Cape Cobras players’ grievance to the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

“The players have exhausted the internal cricket process for dealing with their grievance and now have no option but to refer this to the CCMA”, said SACA chief executive, Tony Irish. “It is the only way that they can deal with it further and keep shining a light on the issue with the franchise. They are not able to seek a binding order from the CCMA but are able to have the grievance conciliated in that forum.”

The grievance relates to a breakdown in the relationship between the majority of the Cobras players and the head coach, Paul Adams. It involves a fundamental loss of confidence by the players in the coach’s ability to lead the coaching of the team arising from his inability to create an effective team culture, poor communication and man management skills, lack of tactical and technical knowledge and disorganisation in running proper practice and training sessions.

“Some people have been quick to point out that the team won trophies under the coach in the period after he took over” said Irish. “According to the players however the coach’s shortcomings back then were compensated for by the role played by senior players at the time and the situation has got progressively worse. It in fact deteriorated to such a point last season that in December 2015 the franchise itself surveyed the players on the issue and the outcome of several of these highlighted the seriousness of the breakdown. The problem wasn’t however addressed by the franchise and in May 2016, when the players heard that the franchise was planning to renew the coach’s contract, 10 out of 17 contracted players most of whom are senior players, raised a formal grievance and thereafter sought the players’ association’s assistance in dealing with it. We also know that players outside of the 10 sympathise with the grievance although have not put their names to it.”

“There is a quick and simple process in cricket for dealing with player grievances, but this was delayed by the franchise and it has now taken more than four months to process this grievance. In the recent mediation process the independent mediator, Paddy Upton, who was nominated by the franchise itself and is an internationally recognised expert on coaching and team dynamics, made a clear recommendation to the parties that the coach should stand down from the team, and be re-deployed in a different capacity if possible. Despite this however, the board of the franchise proceeded to confirm the coach’s re-appointment and stated that Upton’s report was deficient. We and the players concerned strongly disagree with this suggestion of the report’s deficiency. Upton was brought in to get an understanding of the grievance and to assist in resolving it, and he was specifically empowered to use whatever approach he deemed appropriate in doing so. He looked at the documentation, including the surveys, interviewed the individuals he considered relevant and produced a thorough report with a clear recommendation to the parties.”

“The players care about the Cobras team and its ability to perform going forward,” concluded Irish. “They are however extremely frustrated by the way their very legitimate concerns, which were clearly evident over nine months ago, have been dealt with and the length of time it has taken. They want the franchise to address the issue further.”

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RAMELA PUTS SA A IN A COMMANDING POSITION

An unbeaten century by Omphile Ramela put South Africa A in a commanding position before Zimbabwe A fought back by the close of day two of the first four-day Test in Harare on Sunday.

The Cape Cobras Sunfoil Series captain made 101 (224 balls, 9 fours) to take the tourists to 455/6 declared, with the hosts then replying with 107/1 in the 45 overs they faced in reply.

Ramela’s eight career first-class ton was all about patience as it took nearly five and a half hours to amass.

Contrastingly, there was an excellent lower-order blitz by all-rounder Dwaine Pretorius, who fell 11 short of a century after smashing 89 (83 balls, 10 fours, 4 sixes).

Ramela and Pretorius put on 125 for the sixth wicket, with the latter falling to the pick of the bowlers, Shingirai Masakadza (3/83).

The two other wickets to fall in the South African innings on day two were that of Test duo Stiaan van Zyl for 73 (183 balls, 5 fours) and Dane Vilas (1).

When it was time for the South Africans to bowl, the visitors managed just the wicket of Tino Mawoyo (30) in the final hour – the opener dismissed by Dane Piedt (1/23).

Vernon Philander’s return in national colours failed to produce any wickets, but his nine overs came at a cost of just 15. The Proteas’ seamer is playing his first game for his country since sustaining an ankle injury in November.

Zimbabwe’s hero of the day was Brian Chari with his 71 not out (152 balls, 9 fours, 2 sixes) as they closed 348 runs behind.

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RAMELA RELISHING SA A CHANCE

Cape Cobras batsman Omphile Ramela is relishing the opportunity of representing the South Africa A team during their forthcoming assignments in Zimbabwe and Australia.

A group of national hopefuls have been in Pretoria over the past few days preparing for their tours to both countries.

The SA A team will play a two-match, four-day, Test Series against Zimbabwe A in Harare from 9-18 July 2016, before they head out to Australia for two four-day Tests and a triangular series that also involves India A.

“I think it’s a stepping stone to trying to get closer to playing for the Proteas,” Ramela said. “I think these tours are important and if one performs, it adds another feather to your cap and gets you closer to playing for the national team. That’s why everyone is here and what they are hoping for.”

Ramela is part of a strong batting contingent named for both trips, alongside others like captain Stephen Cook, Qaasim Adams, Heino Kuhn and Stiaan van Zyl, to name a few.

He said he was hoping to learn from the experience.

“It’s about imparting knowledge to other players, but it’s also about learning from them,” the 28-year-old said. “You can learn from each and I think it’s important to learn from each other.

“Even myself, I’m still growing as a player, but I’ll definitely be trying to help where I can and where my advice will be needed.”

Ramela, who captained the Cobras in the Sunfoil Series last season, recorded 592 runs at an average of 42.28. He also scored two hundreds and two 50s and is hoping to build on that form in 2016/17, starting with the A tours for his country.

He added: “I think the preparation more or less stays the same, you just try and improve on your weaknesses and really make sure your strengths always shine.

“So there’s nothing more different, but I think you really just try and tighten up your game and get better with the focus of trying to excel in the domestic season as well.”

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PHILANDER MAY TURN UP FOR SA A

As hope is fading fast that South African fast bowler Vernon Philander will feature on the English county circuit, the chances are increasing that he might feature for South Africa A against Australia.

Philander is an indispensable part of South Africa’s immediate test plans and was contracted for another two years in January 2016. But he has been a victim of a long-term injury and limited game time, while the plans to re-insert him into the line-up of Nottingham suffered a setback when the Australian fast bowler Jackson Bird got the nod ahead of him.

According to Arthur Turner, Philander’s agent, Bird was preferred because he was available for the whole season and had not been injured recently. Philander only played in three first-class matches the past season, featuring with a match haul of 5-68 for Western Province and nipping out five batsmen at a strike-rate of 39.6 in two matches for the Cape Cobras.

The 30-year old bowler also featured very infrequently for South Africa in 2015 and operated for 93 overs, taking two wickets in four matches.

“Any player who doesn’t play Indian Premier League, for a county or South Africa will be available for (South Africa A) selection and that includes Vernon,” said Zondi.

He said there will be a clearer picture on Friday 20th May about the composition of the SA A-team to Australia.

Allan Donald, a South African fast bowling legend and former national bowling coach, recently warned that Philander had lost some of his nip away from and into the right-hander in his latter spells as he could not sustain that ideal speed of between 136 and 138 km/h which makes him such a wonderful spearhead in opening spells. He also warned that Philander requires an extended time in the middle in order to regain his bowling rhythm. “Just remember, New Zealand (who is visiting South Africa in August) won’t be a push-over,” he added.

André Nel, a former South African fast bowler, said it is not ideal that bowlers are managed by resting them due to what some call extended work-loads. He said bowlers don’t improve by sitting on the side-lines. You cannot expect bowlers to operate for 10 overs a week and then bowl 70 overs or more in a test. You also manage bowlers by hardening them and allowing them to spend time in the middle.

“The problem is that you cannot match the intensity of match conditions by bowling in the nets. That is why it is imperative to spend time in the middle,” he said.

Philander captured 100 wickets in his first 19 test for South Africa, and 24 in his past 13 appearances in white uniform.

Zondi confirmed that Dale Steyn won’t be in action for South Africa A, but will spend time on more rehabilitation prior to the test series against New Zealand.

 

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PARNELL DELAYS TITANS TITLE BID

Wayne Parnell followed up his 12 wickets in the previous game with another five on the opening day of the Sunfoil Series clash between the Cape Cobras and The Unlimited Titans in Paarl on Thursday.

The Proteas’ left-arm quick bagged 5/62 as the log-leaders were shot out for just 168 at Boland Park.

Parnell, whose 12/105 set up victory against the Sunfoil Dolphins last weekend, was again in lethal form as he easily ran through the batting of the visitors. He was then one of the unbeaten batsmen at the close, which the home side reached on 172/5, thanks mainly to captain Omphile Ramela’s 84 not out (145 balls, 16 fours).

That gave them a lead of eight and capped a good day overall. The Cape side had won the toss and chose to bowl first with Parnell dismissing Heino Kuhn for a six-ball duck in the second over – the competition top-scorer still left stranded on 999 runs this season.

Dane Paterson (3/36) also helped Parnell dismantle the Titans, who had captain Henry Davids to thank for even getting any sort of meaningful total after he made 74 (96 balls, 8 fours, 1 six).

Davids was the second last wicket to fall with his side rolled over in 43 overs.

The Cobras were in early trouble on 10/2 thanks to twin Ethy Mbhalati (2/43) strikes, but recovered thanks to a 95-run fifth wicket stand between Ramela and Cebo Tshiki (47), the latter playing in just his second franchise game.

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THE ALL-ROUNDER

Vernon Philander is one of a growing list of Proteas players who’ve enhanced their long-term career prospects without compromising their on-field careers.


In 2014 the 30-year-old Proteas opening bowler and lower order batsman completed a course in project management through GetSmarter, choosing this course because of off-the-field activities he had become involved in…


“I was involved in a couple of projects but at times I was struggling with the planning and management of them, that’s why I signed up for the course,” Philander explains. “I wasn’t always that organised so sometimes running the projects concurrently was a bit of chaos, but the course gave me some good tools in discipline and management.”


The projects Philander refers to are those run through his Vernon Philander Foundation, established in late 2013 to give back to his community.


“Where I come from many children can’t see that there are opportunities beyond what their brothers, sisters, uncles, and so on are involved in,” he says. “The intention is to give these children a better outlook on life and the tools to cope with it – not everything has to be about gangsterism and drugs. The starting point is Ravensmead, where I grew up, and we work closely with an organisation called Second Chance. One of the guys involved in that project was caught up in drugs while the other has been a world champion dancer. They have shown that you can make something out of nothing, and the way they tell their stories really gets across to the children.”


The inspiration behind Philander’s foundation came through his interaction with Gill Taylor, education and training manager at the Sports Science Institute of South Africa. Taylor is also the national manager of the Macsteel Maestros, both of which the SACA Player Plus programme are partnered with.
“She opened up my mind to the fact that you don’t have to be stuck in where you come from,’ Philander adds. ‘Sometimes we get wrapped up in our bubble thinking we’re stuck in the life we’re in, but we can all make a name for ourselves in our lives.”


One of Philander’s big goals is to expand the reach of his foundation, which is why he felt the need to upskill himself. Through discussions with his SACA PDM, Ruan Schlebusch, they identified the UCT Project Management Foundations course as the perfect one for him. However, his schedule with the national team posed challenges when it came to handing in assignments and writing exams.


“The one moment that stands out was when we were playing against Sri Lanka [in July 2014],” Philander remembers. “The internet connection was quite bad so I was struggling to get something in on time. I have to commend GetSmarter, because they were very understanding of my situation and it’s great that we can write exams anywhere in the world. If I had to do a course where I had to go to class, I would have struggled to fit it in.”


Philander is also thankful for SACA’s support during the 10-week course.


“Ruan was brilliant at checking in that I was still enjoying the course and finding it helpful. The SACA Player Plus programme is excellent motivation for us players to take a little time away from cricket to help set ourselves up for the outside world.”


Buoyed by this experience, Philander plans to tackle another course in the near future.
“I’m looking to do a course in property development, which is also an interest of mine through someone I know,” he says. “By the time I’m finished with the cricket side of things I’ll be able to focus on growing that side too.”


Ordinarily Philander would currently be at the tail end of a cricket season, but instead he has spent the past four months recovering from an ankle injury sustained during a warm-up before the second Test against India last November. He admits it’s been frustrating, but it’s also freed up time to explore even more opportunities beyond the game.


“I’ve become involved in a company called PDV Marketing that does artificial grass – it’s helped me broaden my avenues,’ he adds. ‘The business is growing quite rapidly and it’s helped to take my mind off cricket during a tough time when I haven’t been able to what I love. As can be imagined, it would be tough for anybody to not be able to work for four months.”


When not with physios doing rehab or spending time at his foundation, Philander has also been a regular at Parow Golf Club (where he plays off a 7 handicap) and spending time with his nearest and dearest.


“I always find time for golf,” says Philander animatedly. ‘It’s important to find time to do the things you enjoy – life is so busy that you can sometimes forget about yourself. So every now and again I clear a day or so to get on the course. It helps to clear my mind, as does spending time with my girlfriend. We try hard to enhance each other’s lives by pushing each other to be better. We really enjoy hiking and trail running together, and now that I’m mobile again it’s great to be able to do these things with her.”
Ultimately, Philander believes that if you align all the aspects in your life with the things you’re interested in, you’ll be all the better for it.


“You have to learn to be smart about the choices you make in life. If you do so they will no doubt enhance you as a person. My motto is: Don’t waste time in your life.”

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‘EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON’

When Travis Muller’s season ended after one match, he didn’t immediately realise the benefits that could arise from enforced time off…

Western Province and Cape Cobras pace bowler Travis Muller was looking forward to a breakthrough season, his second as a contracted player. Now the 23-year-old is spending it doing rehab for a stress fracture in his lower back.
Muller’s injury has brought a halt to his steady rise (and packed schedule) since he captained Wynberg Boys’ High School during his Matric year in 2011. In January 2012 he played Cubs Week and was selected for South Africa U19 in series against Zimbabwe and Pakistan before being drafted straight into the Western Province team for the remainder of the season. As it happened, that 2012 winter proved to be his last proper off-season.
Muller was a regular for the provincial amateur side in 2012/13 before going into a stint at Tavistock CC in England. He then had his most prolific season in 2013/14, cracking the Cape Cobras squad in the midst of playing 16 First Class matches. He then headed overseas again, this time to Horsham CC. Last season was almost as busy, spending time in both the provincial and franchise teams before earning selection to the National Academy for 2015 – which culminated in an Emerging Players tour of Sri Lanka last August.
“It was there that I first felt my back, though it’s probably been building for a while. When we returned I played a match in the Africa T20 Cup and haven’t played since… it hasn’t been fun. At the start we weren’t sure what the problem was – some doctors were saying one thing and others were saying another. Finally, in October, we got clarity from a surgeon and thankfully I didn’t need an operation.”
While Muller recognises that he was required to squeeze a lot of cricket into the past four years, he feels his enthusiasm didn’t help either.
“I wouldn’t say I’ve been a victim of my success; there are a number of things that could have played a part besides over-bowling. Apart from games and training I’ve always done lots of outside training too, so I haven’t always given myself enough time to rest.”
As he really loves being involved in the action, Muller initially found it ‘mentally and physically tough’ to be standing around at the nets with his to-do list reduced to rest and rehab. While he could take charge of the physical side of his rehab – which included swimming, cycling and light core work – the mental side needed external help.
“Brad Player [SACA Player Development Manager based in the Western Cape] has been great. He had a similar injury during his playing days so it’s been good to get his insight. He also sent me to Clinton Gahwiler, a psychologist at the Sports Science Institute, for further support. Brad told me to use this time for myself by concentrating on my future and my health, and then cricket will come after. He also suggested that I consider studying while I’m injured. We did aptitude tests which showed I’m strongly interested in a career in sport, so initially we considered Sports Management.”
As it turned out, they settled on another option that suits Muller even better… in surroundings he’s familiar with.
“I’ve always been interested in studying. I wanted to straight after school, but then I broke into SA U19s and it’s just been cricket since. My other passion is fitness, and we found a two-year diploma in sports conditioning at the Exercise Teachers Academy (ETA) College that will also help me manage my workload when I get back on the field.”
Conveniently, ETA College Cape Town is based at the Western Province Cricket Club – where you will find Muller’s name on the Honours board – and they’ve been flexible about fitting his rehab into his daily schedule there.
“ETA is a nice place to study. The hours aren’t long and it’s been easy to relate to the content. There’s usually an hour when the other members of the class perform physical tasks that I’m not allowed to do yet and that’s when I do my rehab. It’s very convenient.”
Another positive to Muller’s current situation is the quality time he’s been able to spend with his friends and parents.
“It’s actually been good to have weekends and be able to go out and see my friends. A couple of my mates are studying, so it’s been nice to chat to them about what their experiences are like. That said, I’ve been missing cricket and would rather be in bed early on a weekend night looking forward to a match the next day.”
At the time of writing Muller was awaiting the programme for his next phase of rehab, but with the cricket season ending shortly he realises his next match will only come next season.
“I was speaking to [Western Province] coach Faiek Davids recently and he was saying that when pre-season starts I must come in and do my rehab there, with my teammates. He told me not to rush back. It’s great that they’re being so understanding and accommodating.”
While Muller has chalked this season down to one where ‘everything happens for a reason’, with breakthroughs coming in other facets of his life, his on-field goals remain undiminished.
“My long-term goals are to have the longest cricket career I can possibly have, so for now I’ll focus on getting fit and healed. Then I want to get back in the Western Province amateur team, then the Cobras, and finally, if I can, the Proteas.”

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SERVICE WITH A SMILE

Every good relationship has to be built on trust, which is exactly how Brad Player describes dealing with players as a SACA Personal Development Manager (PDM).

If there’s anyone who has seen how cricket has changed – particularly in the demands on players – it’s the appropriately named Brad Player. For the past three years Player has been the SACA PDM for the Cape Cobras, Western Province and more recently their Academy players, but his involvement in the professional side of the game dates back to 1984. His playing career spanned an impressive three decades, with Player featuring as an all-rounder for Free State, Western Province and Boland before retiring in 2001.
Ruan Schlebusch, SACA’s National Personal Development Manager, jokes that Player has actually retired lots of times (during his subsequent club career) before giving insight into how the 49-year-old became a PDM.
“We were looking for a solid person who would be trusted by players, and Brad’s name kept coming up. While there’s no set formula for recruiting a PDM we look for someone with experience in personal development and proven facilitation skills. There isn’t a high turnover in the position, and word of mouth is useful when shortlisting for a vacancy. We need people who do it for the right reasons, and share the same philosophy as us,” Schlebusch explains.
Player made a seamless transition into the PDM role.
“When I stopped playing professionally I remained in sports,” says Player. “I’ve worked with sports agencies servicing the sports retail market with wholesale equipment, and I also coach at Claremont CC. Those two jobs allow me to have a ‘mobile’ office, so adding the PDM role to my schedule was possible – a role which I enjoy very much.”
Unsurprisingly, he often thinks back to what life was like when he first came into the game compared to the service he and his colleagues now provide.
“I often joke with Ruan about how the programme could have changed my life,” he says. “Of course circumstances are different for each individual – in my case I didn’t really have family support and people to go to for advice and direction in life. When I first started playing I was 17. It was our so-called entry into the professional era, but at that stage I don’t think we quite knew how to do it – it wasn’t as professional as today. For instance, the thought process back then was to resign if you had been working and got a cricket contract. I initially did my national service after school and straight after that got a job at a corporate company, but it boiled down to making a decision about whether I would focus on my cricket.”
Nowadays such decisions aren’t as black and white any more, which is why Player and his fellow PDMs are trained to help them deal with the ‘grey’ areas. Considering the overall PDM group also has a variety of skills – some are psychologists and others are in education – they keep open dialogue among each other to deal with the changing landscape.
“Our PDMs get standardised training through our partnership with the Sports Science Institute, but we also do individualised fine-tuning work with PDMs on certain spheres,” Schlebusch explains. “For example, with Brad we did modules on facilitation but he has an advantage in other areas because he’s a former player. Thanks to the calibre of PDMs we have, communication is very open. Support and training is provided where needed so that everyone can be confident and competent in their jobs. They constantly phone each other, we have a WhatsApp group and we all meet at least once a year.”
While their discussions often focus on the changing landscape for cricketers, the PDMs stick to fundamentals when they deal with the players.
“We cover three areas,” says Player. “We have to understand the players’ needs, provide dual career support by matching it to the individual person, and we also do life skills facilitation.”
With three teams under their watch, which could amount to 30 players, regular contact could be tricky but Player is in a fortunate position at his old stomping ground.
“I used to play with the coaches who are currently involved there [Paul Adams and Faiek Davids] and they allow me to interact with the players at training. This helps me build a good relationship with the players because I see them often. We are required to interact twice a month with each of the players but I generally see them more often.”
Player expands on the realities the players are faced with: “Initially the drive is to succeed in cricket, but our role in working with the individual as a whole means we have to help them look a little further than cricket. Only a small percentage of players make enough money to be able to invest, for instance… and that’s where the PDMs come in. We have to guide the players in the journey they’ll take through cricket, knowing careers can be quite short-lived, so we have to prepare them for that next step. The nice thing about the programme is that it’s a dual highway – you can do both at the same time.”
Ultimately, it’s mutual understanding that determines the success of a PDM-player relationship.
“You have to build a relationship of trust with the players, it’s not just about ticking a box,” says Player. “With some players it takes a long time before they open up to you, and it’s when they do or they get their driver’s licence or finish their degree that you get the satisfaction. The reward for us lies in their success.”

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KNIGHTS CLIMB UP TO SECOND PLACE

Pite van Biljon scored a vital half-century as the VKB Knights pulled off a stunning run chase to narrowly edge out the Cape Cobras by three wickets late on the final day of their Sunfoil Series match in Bloemfontein on Monday.

The Cobras had been bowled out for 291 in their second innings just before lunch, holding a lead of 256 runs.

This after pace duo of Shadley van Schalkwyk (4/21) and Duanne Olivier (3/41) ripped through the visitor’s middle and lower order, claiming the last six wickets for 29 runs. Justin Ontong top-scored with 57 (85 balls, 8 fours).

Van Biljon then scored 82 not out (140 balls, 10 fours) to hold the Knights’ second innings together as the hosts reached 258/7 at the Mangaung Oval.

The win re-ignited the Knights’ title chances as they collected 18.44 points from the match to move above the bizhub Highveld Lions into second place on the log, just 11.64 points behind the log-leading Unlimited Titans with two matches left to play.

The Knights were left 70 overs to chase down the winning total, but needed just 60.3 overs to complete the victory.

Their run-chase was initially a touch rocky with the early loss of Reeza Hendricks (8), Michael Erlank (3) and Rudi Second (18), although Letlotlo Sesele (45) did provide the innings with some stability.

Van Biljon and Tumelo Bodibe (28) then set up the run-chase with a 66-run fifth-wicket stand, before Van Biljon and Werner Coetsee (36) hammered 61 runs for the sixth wicket off just 10 overs to take their team to the brink of victory.

Wayne Parnell helped the Cobras claw their way back into the match when he dismissed Coetsee and Van Schalkwyk (2) in consecutive overs to set up a tense finish.

But Van Biljon and Malusi Siboto (6 not out) took their team to the finish line.

Parnell ended with 3/68 and Lizaad Williams nabbed 3/49.

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HENDRICKS AND COOK LEAD LIONS VICORTY

Centuries from Dominic Hendricks and opener Stephen Cook underpinned an innings-and-78-run victory for Lions over Cape Cobras in Potchefstroom.

Having chosen to bat, Lions lost Rassie van der Dussen early, but Stephen Cook and Hendricks combined well in a 261-run partnership to propel their side. Cook and Hendricks fell for 150 and 160 respectively, but there was no respite for Cobras. Yassar Cook, wicketkeeper-batsman Nicky van den Bergh, and Dwaine Pretorious all stroked fifties as Lions stacked up 580, before declaring the innings. As it turned out, they did not have to bat again.

The Cobras, who had managed only 258 in their first dig, fared worse, after being asked to follow on. Left-arm spinner Bjorn Fortuin finished with a match haul of six wickets to clean up the lower order. Fast bowler Hardus Viljoen, who made light work of the top order, claimed figures of 4 for 42 to dismiss Cobras for 244.

Omphile Ramela Stiaan van Zyl, Wayne Parnell all had starts, but failed to push on. Parnell had a start in the first innings as well, which he converted to 62 before being pinned lbw by pacer Pumelela Matshikwe. Andrew Puttick scored 73 at the top of the order, but the middle order fell away. Lions ultimately walked away with 19.1 points to narrow the gap at the top of the table. Cobras, on the other hand, remained rooted to the bottom half of the table with just a solitary win in six matches.

 

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MOMENTUM ONE-DAY CUP CHAMPIONS

Half-centuries by Stephen Cook and Alviro Petersen helped the bizhub Highveld Lions complete a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over the Cape Cobras to clinch the Momentum One-Day Cup title in emphatic fashion at PPC Newlands on Sunday.

The two senior visiting batsmen were not the only key contributors for their side with the bowlers also playing a vital role in Cape Town, where the Johannesburg side won with a massive 98 balls to spare. The plaudits will be taken by Cook, who ended unbeaten on 77 (94 balls, 9 fours) at the end, and Petersen, after his 55 (56 balls, 8 fours), but the real graft was done by the Lions’ bowlers.

After winning the toss and opting to field first, they turned in a splendid display with the ball to topple the hosts for just 169 in 42 overs. Pumelela Matshikwe and Aaron Phangiso claimed three wickets apiece, while there was one each for all the other frontline bowlers. Medium-pacer Matshikwe was particularly impressive with his 3/28 in eight overs, including two maidens. Phangiso bagged 3/33 in nine overs on a memorable day for the Lions.

Only one batsmen made a significant contribution for the Cobras. That was captain Justin Ontong with 60 (77 balls, 2 fours). But their total looked significantly short at the halfway stage, and so it told.

The Lions made light work of the chase and raced to 67 for none in the 15th over, before Rassie van der Dussen (29) fell. But Petersen and Cook, killed off any hopes that may have been raised by that wicket with a 96-run second wicket stand. Former Proteas opener Petersen took his season aggregate beyond the 700 mark, before he eventually fell with less than 10 to get, and Cook struck the winning runs to hit the 500 mark when they achieved the target in the 34th over.

Victory in the one-day competition was the first outright title for the Lions since the 2003/04 season when they did so as Gauteng in the pre-franchise era.. They did share the prize with the Cobras in 2012/13.

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LIONS, WARRIORS GEAR UP FOR QUALIFIER

bizhub Highveld Lions coach Geoffrey Toyana believes that starting the Momentum One-Day Cup Qualifier stronger against the Warriors in Johannesburg on Wednesday will go a long way towards deciding who will reach the final on Sunday. The two sides clash at the Bidvest Wanderers Stadium with the Cape Cobras awaiting the winner at PPC Newlands.

The hosts will go into the game as the favourites due to home advantage and by virtue of ending the season in second position ahead of the visitors.

“It’s a vital game for both sides, but from our end everyone is in good spirit,” Toyana said. “Playing at home will be a big advantage for us. “But I think it will all boil down to whoever starts the game better. That will go a long way towards deciding the outcome.”

The Warriors have had a disappointing season overall, but Toyana praised the work of young coach Malibongwe Maketa, saying they were dangerous opponents. “I think Malibongwe has done a very good job there,” he added. “His partnership with Colin Ingram is fantastic and the past 12 months they’ve played some good one-day cricket.”

The Lions have some major injury worries ahead of the game with both Temba Bavuma (back) and Eddie Leie (hamstring) likely to miss out. Hardus Viljoen faces a late fitness test, but Dwaine Pretorius is expected to return from injury.

The Warriors have even bigger injury concerns as skipper Ingram nurses back and knee problems. He is being monitored closely by their medical staff. Clyde Fortuin (finger) is expected to be fit to take his place in the XI. Coach of the Eastern Cape side Maketa, insisted there were no underdogs for the clash. “To be honest, that (counting ourselves as underdogs) will be trying to hide,” he said. “I think it’s a 50-50 game.

“There’s no underdog, it’s all about going out there and executing your skills. I think our chances are pretty good. We’ve prepared well and played some good one-day cricket overall this season. I think the side that pitches up will get through.”

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COBRAS SECURE HOME FINAL

A blistering century from Dane Vilas ensured that the Cape Cobras will host the Momentum One-Day Cup final after they claimed a five-wicket win over the Warriors at St George`s Park in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

Unbeaten Vilas crashed 5 sixes and 11 fours in his 70-ball assault as the visitors recovered from some early trouble to chase down a 258 target with 15 balls to spare.

The Proteas wicketkeeper – reaching his sixth List A century – shared in an unbroken record 161-run sixth-wicket partnership with Justin Ontong, who made 60 not out (81 balls, 2 fours, 1 six). The pair initially came together when their side was in a huge spot of bother at 96/5 and still needing 161 from 24 overs. But they smashed the previous record of 137 unbroken between Vilas himself and Sybrand Engelbrecht, set back in the 2014/15 season.

The pick of the bowlers was Colin Ackermann, who earlier top-scored with the bat to lift the Warriors to a competitive total. Ackermann struck 92 (125 balls. 10 fours) , while Yaseen Vallie hit 58 (72 balls, 5 fours) to give the home side a chance, they eventually surrendered.

Dane Paterson was the pick of the bowlers with 3/54.

The Warriors dropped to third with the result and are likely to stay there and qualify for the play-offs, unless the Unlimited Titans can secure bonus-point wins from their remaining two games.

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BOWLERS SET UP EASY COBRAS WIN

Beuran Hendricks led a splendid all-round bowling display as the Cape Cobras took a huge step towards the Momentum One-Day Cup final with a comprehensive six-wicket win over the bizhub Highveld Lions at Boland Park in Paarl on Sunday. The left-arm seamer claimed 3/18 to help the hosts dismiss their visitors for a paltry 133 all out in 40.3 overs.

There were also 2 wickets each for Dane Piedt (2/20), Dane Paterson (2/26) and Wayne Parnell (2/35). The hosts then cruised home with just 4 wickets down and 16.5 overs to spare, thanks to an unbeaten 63 off 86 balls from Andrew Puttick. Stiaan van Zyl made 35, but the real work had been even before the Cobras had gone out to bat with their bowlers firing.

All but one of the Lions batsmen struggled after they had lost the toss and were asked to bat first by home captain Justin Ontong.

The Johannesburg-based team were 3/1, 5/2 and then 7/3 with three of their key batsmen in Rassie van der Dussen (2), Alviro Petersen (2) and Temba Bavuma (0) gone for next to nothing on the scoreboard.

They failed to recover from that and when captain Stephen Cook (9) fell to make it 24/4, they were left scrapping. Dominic Hendricks top-scored with an unbeaten 44, while extras was joint next best with 15, along with three other players.

Defeat left the Lions in second place on 19 points and as the only side with a chance of overhauling the Cobras (29), who also claimed a bonus point. But they will need to win their remaining two games with bonus points and hope the Cape side lose their last two matches.

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RAMELA SECURES COBRAS DRAW

Omphile Ramela scored a century as the Cape Cobras batted out the final day of their Sunfoil Series clash against the Sunfoil Dolphins at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead in Durban on Sunday.

The visiting captain, who scored 89 in the first innings, made 107 with his side following on, helping them reach 361 for six before shaking hands with opposite number Khaya Zondo on the stroke of tea.

Only 64 overs were bowled on the final day, with the match seemingly going nowhere on a slow pitch and the Cape side 202 ahead.

It was only Ramela’s seventh career century and first of the season, while both his scores in the match improved on his previous best score of 46 during the current campaign.

He did not do it all by himself though, with the Cobras having good contributions from Justin Ontong (74), Dane Vilas (54) and an unbeaten 53 from 22-year-old Keegan Petersen.

Andile Phehlukwayo (2-37) and Keshav Maharaj (2-130) picked up two wickets apiece – the latter collecting seven in the match from a mammoth 93.2 overs.

Ramela was named man of the match and his Cobras side walked away with 5.2 points compared to the 7.9 for the Dolphins.

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PRETORIUS BOOSTS LIONS SPIRIT

All-rounder Dwaine Pretorius has enjoyed two memorable weekends of Sunfoil Series action for the bizhub Highveld Lions.

First he starred with the bat to deny the Cape Cobras what looked a certain win, before claiming six wickets with the ball to help the Johannesburg side secure an unlikely victory over the VKB Knights this past weekend. Those results have kept the Lions right in the title mix as they look to defend the crown they won last season. The 26-year-old admits the win this past weekend in Kimberley, which came inside three days, was a huge surprise.

“I arrived on day three thinking we are not going to bowl and will probably bat all day,” he said. “But there we were bowling before lunch and got a few wickets and it was all over just after tea, so it was a real roller coaster. “I’m just glad we were the ones that pulled off the win.”

The Lions started day three on 18 without loss, before themselves being bowled out for 94. That left the Knights needing 138 to win, but they were rolled over for just 92 with Pretorius picking up three for 37. He said they always had belief that they could defend such a low total.

“We thought it would be possible, I mean 140 on that wicket, it was going to be tough. But because we had them 50 for five in the first innings, we had that belief,” Pretorius said.

The result came a week after the same player and the Lions tail helped their side escape with an epic draw in Paarl.”Last week was crazy,” Pretorius, who made 101, added. “We decided to keep fighting and not give them an easy win. “You never know when those extra points will come in handy. I’m just really proud of the hundred I scored there, I’ve not scored too many, so that was right up there. But after I got out, we still needed the tail and I think they did excellently in the circumstances.”

 

 

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LAYING A PLATFORM

Anybody that has tried to balance their job with studies knows the difficulties involved. No surprise then that it was a long layoff from his work that helped Cape Cobras all-rounder Shaheen Khan make a considerable dent in his studies.

From a cricket perspective, Shaheen Khan had a tough 2015. The 28-year-old started it as an all-rounder in the Cape Cobras lineup, but ended it as a batsman only in the Western Province provincial side. A long-term injury saw to that…

“I injured my back in January and was out for almost 10 months. It was frustrating, but in the end it allowed me to bite off a lot of the studies. Focusing on my studies helped to take my mind off cricket and set a foundation for my future.”

After matriculating from Cravenby Secondary in 2005, Khan was actually a student while playing Cape club cricket before his ‘breakthrough’ season when he moved to play for Gauteng in 2012.

“I started studying before I was a semi-professional or had a contract with the Cobras. I always knew I needed something to fall back on so I could make a life for myself if cricket didn’t work out. So many players think of playing until they’re 35 but you have to ask yourself what you’ve done to make your 36th year successful…”

In order to do so, he started a Business Management degree through Unisa in 2009, but admits that it’s been challenge – not least as his cricket fortunes improved.

“I started it, then stopped in 2012 [a year when he also played club cricket in England for Cleator CC]. Since then it’s been difficult while I’ve been at the Cobras.”

Structure and logistics have often been the challenges.

“I realised that you have to do the bulk of year’s work in the first half of the year, because once the season starts it’s difficult to fit it in when there’s so much training, travelling and playing. There have been away trips where I’ve begged the captain to give me his single room so I can study, or tried to convince the management of a hotel to open the Wifi. However, the coaches at the Cobras have been very lenient and I’ve had other perks like avoiding bus trips and getting to fly instead when I’ve written an exam on the day that the guys travel.”

One of the benefits of SACA Player Plus Khan has made use of since signing for the Cape Cobras is applying for and receiving a bursary for his studies. Another is SACA sourcing and paying for a resource – in his case a tutor for Financial Accounting – to assist players with legitimate problematic modules. By and large, though, he’s more comfortable tackling his studying on his own.

“During my injury last year, I spent a lot of time at home in my room. Before my mid-year exams I spent nine days holed up in there studying and I got eight distinctions. It’s proof what I could achieve when I had that much time.”

That being said, when he wanted to play his part in his family business by adding a further string to his bow during his 2015 injury rehabilitation, SACA was his first point of contact.

“The story behind it is that I needed to up my computer literacy. I’d started up a construction business [named FIRZ Projects] with my father and brother but I only had the basic skills. While they are more hands-on my cricket meant I wasn’t; so I thought it would help I could I do some of the admin things that doesn’t require my active involvement. I approached my SACA Personal Development Manager [Brad Player] for guidance and we decided that I should apply for another Player Plus bursary for online courses from MasterGrade IT.”

As a result, Khan is registered for four Microsoft courses, namely Word, PowerPoint, Outlook and Excel.

“You’re allowed to register for a year before you have to complete the courses, which entail watching videos and then writing tests. I started in late August-early September and have completed Outlook and Excel. I’m starting my third year Unisa subjects this year so before it gets going I want to complete the other two too.”

While his studies are on the right track, a return to full capacity is also in the offing for the rest of Khan’s season.

“I started bowling in the nets during December and didn’t have any reaction so I hope to be bowling in matches by the end of January. If I can contribute as a batsman and a bowler, it will hopefully help me get back into the Cobras team again.”

Perhaps it’s true when they say ‘healthy mind, healthy body’…

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FRUSTRATED COBRAS SEEK WARRIORS REDEMPTION

The Cape Cobras did everything right in their last Sunfoil Series outing against the bizhub Highveld Lions over the weekend.

They made runs, they took wickets and they had their opponents on the ropes for most of the final day. But they lacked the knockout blow in Paarl, one that would have given them a first win of the competition this season.

Instead they had to settle for an exasperating draw, which did snap a two-game losing streak, and they will be looking to build on that when they travel to St George’s Park in Port Elizabeth to face the Warriors in a bottom-of-the-table clash starting on Thursday.

They have had plenty of things to work on since Sunday, according to coach Paul Adams. “We had to work very hard during that game,” he says. “The bowlers were quite short and it’s something we’ve had to work on afterwards.

“For us it’s mainly been about recovering since then. We know we’re on the right track and it’s about following those same processes going forward, making sure we’re fresh and ready come Thursday.”

Adams feels there are many positives to take away from the result and hopes they can build on them in the Eastern Cape. “A draw in the game was as good as a loss, we get the same amount of points,” he added. “It’s important for me that we can pick it up from here and continue with that momentum.”

Richard Levi is fit again after a foot injury and is expected to come into the middle-order for JP Duminy, who marked his return to form with an outstanding 260 not out at Boland Park.

While the Cobras were left frustrated by the Lions’ tail – they were one wicket away from victory – their opponents, the Warriors, were thwarted by the rain.

But just like their opponents, their washout against the Sunfoil Dolphins in Pietermaritzburg, ended a two-game losing streak start to the competition. “It was frustrating what happened, but at least our bowlers got some rest and we hope that will assist us going into this game,” coach Malibongwe Maketa stated.

Seamers Basheer Walters and Sisanda Magala are both carrying niggles and face late fitness tests.

Maketa is expecting a tough assignment against their Cape rivals, adding: “It’s always a good challenge against the Cobras, who are a very good side. Having come so close to a victory in that game last week, they’ll be determined to set the record straight.”

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LIONS SECURE MONUMENTAL DRAW

bizhub Highveld Lions, all-rounder and current Domestic MVP leader, Dwaine Pretorius added to a third career century to his tally to helped secure an unlikely Sunfoil Series draw against the Cape Cobras in Paarl late on Sunday.

The visitors were left holding on for dear life by the close when they ended an epic final day on 287 for nine from 140 overs in their follow-on innings.

Spearheaded by a magnificent 101 from 178 balls by Pretorius, the Lions had several heroes through the day, but many plaudits will go to the final wicket pair of Aaron Phangiso and Eddie Leie. Phangiso, in particular, batted for 20 minutes short of two hours at the end for a stubborn 16 from 85 balls, while number No.11 Leie was unbeaten on one from 39 balls having batted for 48 minutes. They batted for over 14 overs together to ensure the hard work done by Pretorius, who batted for over four hours, was not wasted.

There were other heroes too for the Johannesburg franchise with Nick van den Bergh making 28 in a little over three hours. The rookie wicketkeeper and Pretorius adding 112 together for the sixth wicket in 43.3 overs.

Earlier, Rassie van der Dussen (72) and Shaylen Pillay (26) played their part too as the Lions maintained their unbeaten start to the season. They walked away with 4.04 points, but still dropped to third on the table.

The Cobras, who ended their two-game losing streak, had Robin Peterson to thank for taking them so close after his four for 88. They took away 9.04 points from the game and jumped to fifth.

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DOLPHINS SET THE STAGE FOR A THRILLING RAM SLAM FINAL

TheCape Cobras contrived to blow the advantage given to them by Richard Levi’s superb innings, as the Sunfoil Dolphins clung on for a thrilling five-run victory at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead that put them into the RAM SLAM T20 Challenge Final. Andile Phehlukwayo was once again the bowling hero at the death for the Dolphins, being given the 18th and 20th overs to take 2/7 and also build the pressure that led to the run out of Justin Ontong.

With Levi blitzing 85 from just 43 balls, the Cobras went into the last five overs of their chase needing just a run a ball with seven wickets in hand to win the play-off.

Although Levi had departed by that stage, with plenty of batting to come the Cobras looked certain victors, but they went on to lose five wickets for the addition of just 19 runs to grab defeat from the jaws of victory. The Dolphins will now travel to SuperSport Park to take on The Unlimited Titans in Saturday’s final, with their belief undoubtedly buoyed. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, they saw Cameron Delport put up his first significant score of the campaign as he scored 55 from 37 balls in an opening partnership with Morne van Wyk (57) that was worth 99.

That set the tone, and allowed David Miller and Kevin Pietersen to do what they do best once the openers had departed. The pair hit two sixes apiece, with Pietersen making 27 from 10 balls and Miller finishing unbeaten on 33 from 24 balls, as the Dolphins posted 178 for three. No team has scored more than 179 in the competition this season, and so it was clear that the Cobras faced a stiff challenge, particularly with a lack of firepower in their middle-order. Levi produced the big innings when they needed it most, bludgeoning seven sixes in a brutal innings that saw him reach 50 in just 20 deliveries.

The Cobras romped to 77 without loss in the power play, with Wayne Parnell (27) playing the supporting role, and, even after Levi misjudged the length and pace of a Delport delivery to depart in the 14th over, the game should have been in the bag. Yet the Cobras hit just two boundaries from that point on – both of them by Lesiba Ngoepe (32) – and the pressure built up progressively as a result.

It was then that Phehlukwayo became the hero for the Dolphins – and not for the first time in this season’s competition either – bowling two of the last three overs, during which he conceded just seven runs off the bat and claimed two wickets, while Justin Ontong was also run out in his final over. The all-rounder is still four months shy of his 20th birthday on March 3 next year, but will now have the opportunity to showcase his growing skills and impressive nerve in South Africa’s most high-profile domestic game on Saturday.

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THRILLING ROAD TO THE RAM SLAM T20 FINAL

SuperSport Park will be the place to be on Saturday evening when it plays host to the fourth RAM SLAM final. The home side, The Unlimited Titans will take on the winners of Wednesday’s playoff between the Sunfoil Dolphins and the Cape Cobras for the coveted winners cheque of R2,7 Million.

Leading up to Saturday’s game, the ever popular RAM SLAM DropZone will be up and running at the Menlyn Park Shopping Centre from 16h00 – 18h00 on Friday 11 December. The exhilarating match day activation has seen fans queueing time and time again for their opportunity to jump up to 18 meters off a crane onto a massive inflatable cushion. In addition to the DropZone, there’ll be ticket give aways as well as the Unlimited Titans players present for autographs. Everyone is welcome to come and join in the free fun!

The crowd favourite competition #CatchAMillion will be in full force at the final with all 9 winners to date being flown into the ground via helicopter, which will land on the pitch minutes before the coin toss. Add to this live DJ’s Black Coffee as well as DJ Euphonik, the ongoing #DanceCam competition now with double the prize money on offer, 20 Slams and the RAM SLAM DropZone the fans are certainly set to get more than they bargained for. The #DropAMillion prize of R10 000 for the worst drop catch is sure to be a winner with those selected fans who missed out on their share of the massive R1 million Rand due to their dropped catch. Funny-man Joey Rasdien is in place to ensure that those unable to attend the game are at least laughing at home.

RAM Hand to Hand Couriers Joint MD David Lazarus encourages the fans to join in the fun atmosphere in the final “Supersport Park will be set alight this Saturday – we’ve ensured that there’s something for everyone from kiddies areas, live music, competitions and all-round thrilling Summer entertainment.”

 

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WARRIORS CLICK INTO A HIGHER GEAR

 

After notching up the first of the three victories that they need to challenge for the RAM SLAM T20 qualifier spots, Colin Ingram admits that the thrill of the Warriors’ task is proving beneficial as they prepare to take on the VKB Knights at the Mangaung Oval in their next assignment.

The Warriors kept the race for the tournament’s play-off game wide open by seeing off the Cape Cobras on Wednesday night, leaving four teams in the running for the qualifier.

While the Cobras are still in pole position with 20 points, the fact that they face the third-placed Sunfoil Dolphins in their remaining fixture means that one of the play-off places is likely to be there for the taking if the Warriors or the Lions can win their final two games.

Ingram says that the intense pressure on the Warriors, who have travelled to Bloemfontein with an unchanged squad, is kicking them into a higher gear.

“You’d obviously prefer to be right up there and not have to play with this pressure, but if you look at the positives, every game is almost a final for us,” he said.

“In that way we can really leave it all out there, and maybe for a bunch of young guys who are quite ambitious, it can be exciting.”

Ingram was pleased with the way that the Warriors “won all the big moments” against the Cobras, recovering from the loss of three early wickets to post an above-average total, and then holding their nerve with the ball and in the field when it mattered.

A similar performance will be required against the Knights, who have bounced back from losing their opening six games in the competition to win their last two games convincingly.

“We’re feeling a lot better after getting some results that suggested how we’ve been playing,” said captain, Werner Coetsee. “We hadn’t played bad cricket before that; we just hadn’t been able to cross the line.

“We’d like to build on that and keep on improving, because there’s still a long season left for us. We want to make sure we take something out of this campaign.”

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BOOSTS FOR COBRAS AS LEVI MAKES A COMES BACK

Richard Levi has provided a welcome boost to the Cape Cobras ahead of their crucial encounter with the Sunfoil Dolphins at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead after he was given the all-clear by a neurologist.

Levi suffered a mild concussion after taking a blow to the temple while fielding last weekend, but recovered swiftly and showed no ill effects during a 40-minute session of throwdowns at PPC Newlands on Wednesday.

As such he has been passed fit to play in Friday’s televised affair – a major fillip for the Cobras as they look to bounce back from a disappointing loss to the Warriors on Wednesday.

Despite that result, the Cobras remain second on the table and can seal a home play-off by beating the Dolphins, who currently trail them by two points.

Having shot out of the blocks early in the tournament, winning their first four games in the competition, the Dolphins have subsequently hit a wall and find themselves crawling towards the finishing line.

Despite that, they could still earn a home play-off should they beat the Cobras and have other results go their way.

“It has been difficult,” admitted coach, Lance Klusener. “I think we’ve been pretty hard on ourselves and taken some of the losses a bit personally.

“But we’re still in a position to qualify and the nice thing is that qualification is still in our own hands. We’re upbeat about that, but we’re not shying away from the fact that we need to lift our game.”

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WARRIORS FIGHT FOR THE WIN IN EAST LONDON

Cape Cobras had the best bowler – Mthokozisi Shezi with 5 for 34 – and the top scorer of the game – Wayne Parnell with 74 not out – but they still fell 12 short of Warriors in East London.

Warriors cobbled together a total of 153 for 8 after choosing to bat, the innings stuttering as only three batsmen made it past 20. JJ Smuts’ unbeaten 61 off 40 balls was their best score, while Colin Ackerman’s 34 was second highest. Shezi ran through the middle and lower order, striking twice in two different overs to cripple the innings.

Cobras opened with Parnell once again and he made 74 off 60 balls, batting through the innings. He got very little support though and there was a steady fall of wickets at the other end. Justin Kemp’s 20 was the next best score for Cobras and a low scoring rate deprived the chase of momentum. Five Warriors bowlers picked up wickets, with Andrew Birch returning best figures of 3 for 28.

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PARNELL PERFORMANCE PUSHES COBRAS TO SECOND

Wayne Parnell played the innings of his life in the shortest format to take the Cape Cobras to second place on the RAM SLAM T20 Challenge log with a 6-wicket victory over the bizhub Highveld Lions at the Bidvest Wanderers Stadium on Sunday.

The Cobras now have 20 points with two games to play while the Sunfoil Dolphins have 18 points with one match to play which is against the Cobras. This match could well decide who finishes second on the log although the Warriors are by no means out of the picture either. The Cobras match against the Warriors on Wednesday is also a critical one.

The Lions can still reach the knock-out stage but they will have to win both their remaining fixtures. The Unlimited Titans are now confirmed as the top team on the log and get direct access to a home final.

Ironically, Parnell would never have got the chance to bat at the top of the order had the Cobras not suffered yet another injury – this time a freak concussion for opening batsman Richard Levi who was hit on the back of the head while fielding.

The turning point of the match, although it was not evident at the time, came when Parnell, who opened with Andrew Puttick, was caught by Thami Tsolekile off the bowling of Hardus Viljoen. On referral the delivery was confirmed as a no ball and Parnell, who had 20 at the time, went on to make a match-winning 99 (57 balls, 9 fours and 5 sixes). The next highest contribution to the Cobras’ winning total was Andrew Puttick’s 19 which illustrates just how much he dominated the runs chase.

The Lions looked to have posted a competitive total of 153/5 after winning the toss thanks to an unbroken partnership of 53 in 4.3 overs between Thami Tsolekile and Dwaine Pretorius but in the end they had no answer to Parnell’s onslaught.

Parnell was named RAM Slammer of the day while Justin Kemp, playing his 100th game in the T20 format, was named RAM Deliverer of the day for his figures of 2/26.

Levi was taken to hospital where he was diagnosed with mild concussion and kept in hospital overnight as a precautionary measure.

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COBRAS COUNTING ON EXPERIENCE OF KEMP AND PETERSON

The Cape Cobras will fall back on the experience of an old hand in Justin Kemp as they look to overcome the loss of overseas star, Kieron Pollard, in Sunday’s crunch RAM SLAM T20 clash against the bizhub Highveld Lions at Bidvest Wanderers.

Pollard was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after injuring his right knee during last Sunday’s win over the Knights in Paarl, handing the Cobras their latest blow in a campaign beset by injuries and non-availabilities.

Wayne Parnell, Rory Kleinveldt, Robin Peterson and George Linde have all spent time on the sidelines during the tournament, while Pollard was absent for a week when he was called up to the West Indian Twenty20 side in Sri Lanka.

“We’ve been in the wars in this tournament,” said Cobras coach, Paul Adams.

However, Adams had three causes for cheer this week, two of them on the injury front as Parnell showed promising recovery from his foot injury and Peterson also improved swiftly enough to suggest that he will be available on Sunday.

The third fillip is the depth of the Cobras’ resources, which allows Adams to call on someone like Kemp – who will play his 100th T20 match – to fill the gap left by Pollard.

“Kempy has been around very much as a mentor, practising with the guys and staying in touch with the game, so for us it’s about bringing in that experience,” said Adams.

“Also Robbie has recovered nicely so it’s a very experienced side that we take into the weekend, which is at the business end, so hopefully some of their calmness will rub on to the younger players.”

The Cobras currently sit in third place, but could lose that position if they lose to the Lions, who are just four points behind.

The Lions had the opportunity to draw level on points on Wednesday night, but blew their chance by losing to the Knights, making Sunday’s game all the more important.

“Everyone knows where we stand,” said Lions captain, Thami Tsolekile. “If we had won on Wednesday night then it would have taken the pressure off, but now every game has become a must-win.”

Tsolekile acknowledged that batting remains the main problem for the Lions, but suggested that they wouldn’t want conditions to try and make up for that in Sunday’s game.

“Ideally we don’t want the wicket to be too quick, because our spin bowling has been one of our main strengths,” he pointed out. “That said, the Wanderers has always got pace, even when it’s turning.”

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POLLARD TO MISS OUT DUE TO KNEE INJURY

Kieron Pollard, world-class all-rounder of the defending RAM SLAM T20 champions, the Cape Cobras, won’t take part in the remainder of the domestic T20-showpiece due to an injury to his right knee.

He will fly back to the Caribbean on Wednesday.

The injury occurred while the 28-year Pollard was fielding in the T20 match against the VKB Knights at Boland Park in Paarl on Sunday.

Despite experiencing some discomfort, he hammered an unbeaten 22 off 13 balls to power the Cobras to a win to entrench their third position on the log.

“We are severely disappointed about the loss of a stalwart like Kieron,” said Paul Adams, the Cape Cobras coach. “Kieron has given his all. The fact that he went out to bat after he got injured, underlines his dedication and commitment to the team. He has been an inspiration to the whole squad.”

Adams said Pollard’s record speaks for itself. He was the domestic RAM SLAM T20 Challenge player of the year in the 2014/2015 season and was at the summit of the Cobras’ batting averages (he averages 51.50 in the T20-format) at the time of the injury.

Yet mere statistics don’t do justice to Pollard’s contribution as his ability to change matches with his belligerence as a dashing batsman or with his expert change of pace with the ball, gave the Cobras the ascendancy in several matches the past season and a half.

Pollard had been on record saying the difference between winning and losing in RAM SLAM T20 Challenge matches is about “who blinks first”. The lanky all-rounder was almost always the one to emerge victorious when the dust settled, as he showed during his stylish display on Sunday.

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COBRAS BEAT KNIGHTS TO STAY IN THE RACE

The Cape Cobras kept pace in the race for the RAM SLAM T20 play-offs after they triumphed by four wickets over the VKB Knights, who have now lost all six of their games in the competition.

On a Boland Park pitch that none of the batsmen were able to sink their teeth into, the Knights put up 140 for seven after being put into bat, which the Cobras eclipsed with three balls to spare.

While that suggested a close run chase, in truth the Cobras always looked in control after Richard Levi had scored a quick 36 and Justin Ontong had anchored the innings with his 40.

The Cobras were also grateful to Dane Paterson, who took 2 for 24 from four overs and, crucially, broke a threatening stand between Theunis de Bruyn and Andre Russell.

The Knights had slumped to 49 for three in the first half of their knock, but De Bruyn and Russell put on 51 in 34 balls to put them on track for a solid total.

Paterson ensured the pair were not around for the business end of the innings when he bowled Russell (27) and then completed the run-out of De Bruyn (45) in the same over.

With Levi scoring his runs from just 23 balls at the top of the Cobras innings, the scoreboard pressure was taken off the rest of the line-up.

Although they were pegged back by Dillon du Preez’s double strike in the ninth over and squeezed by Malusi Siboto’s canny bowling, which permitted just 15 runs in four overs, the required rate never rose above eight per over.

With Kieron Pollard’s firepower that was never a problem, and the West Indian’s unbeaten 23 from 12 balls saw the hosts over the line.

The Cobras remain in third place on the table, two points behind the second-placed Dolphins, but will feel that they are yet to hit top gear in the tournament.

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COBRAS SPINNING RESOURCES PUT TO THE TEST

The Cape Cobras head into their crucial RAM SLAM T20 clash with The Unlimited Titans at PPC Newlands on Friday without their best two spinners after George Linde joined Robin Peterson on the injured list.

Linde fractured a finger on his bowling hand during the five-wicket win over the Dolphins on Sunday, and so the Cobras have called on Siya Simetu for their two upcoming games this weekend.

The Simetu was a regular fixture in the Cape Cobras side during the 2013/14 RAM SLAM, but did not feature at all last season and will need to adapt to the pace of the competition quickly.

The defending champions currently sit third with 12 points from five games, and will need to rein in the Titans after their bonus-point victory over the Dolphins on Wednesday put them top of the table with 21 points.

“This is a key game – we need to take some points off the Titans now that they’re top of the log. We need to make sure that we’re ticking,” said Cobras coach, Paul Adams.

“We haven’t had the perfect game yet, and that’s what the players are striving for. We keep presenting that in front of them and hopefully it comes as we get close to the end of the league phase.”

A big part of the Unlimited Titans’ success during their winning streak, which stretched to five games on Wednesday, has been their ability to think on their feet.

“We’ve played on some funny wickets so far – some turners and some up-and-down wickets – so we’ve had to adapt our bowling plans on the field and I think that’s one thing we’ve done well so far,” reflected Titans captain, Albie Morkel. “We’ve assessed the situations quite nicely.”

Lungi Ngidi missed Wednesday’s game because he was writing exams, but has joined the Titans squad for the game against the Cobras.

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TITANS FACE TESTING WEEK IN BATTLE AT THE TOP

With four straight wins under their belt The Unlimited Titans may be the form team in the RAM SLAM T20, but they know that they face their toughest challenges in the competition this week, starting with Wednesday’s visit to the Sunfoil Dolphins. Losing to the Dolphins in their opening game, the Titans have gone on an impressive winning streak to sit level with their opponent at the top of the standings.

But this week sees them visit the Dolphins and then travel to Cape Town to take on the third-placed Cape Cobras on Friday, making it a crucial few days in the race for top spot and an automatic place in the final.

The Titans have retained the same squad that conquered the Warriors over the weekend, with coach, Rob Walter, enjoying the depth that he has found in his ranks.

“We’ve changed our team pretty much every game for varying reasons – from family loss to injury to game plans – so what’s nice is that the guys who have come in and got an opportunity to play have stood up and done something for us,” said Walter.

“So we’re happy with everyone’s form, and we want to be able to field a team that is specific to our opposition or the conditions, and know that whoever we bring in is in form and is ready to play. We obviously have good momentum, but I see Wednesday and Friday as being our biggest challenges.”

After winning their first four games, the Dolphins were finally felled on Sunday when Wayne Parnell engineered a five-wicket win for the Cobras.

“It’s just the nature of the game,” reflected Morne van Wyk. “It’s such a short format that you have to be on the ball all of the time, and it’s hard to claw yourself back if you aren’t.”

The Dolphins do, however, need to figure out their best combinations now that Kevin Pietersen has departed, Prenelan Subrayen has been banned from bowling and Kyle Abbott has flown to India to play for the Proteas.

After scoring 77 off just 46 balls for KZN Inland in the CSA Provincial T20 Challenge this weekend, Vaughn van Jaarsveld has returned to the Dolphins squad along with Sibonelo Makhanya.

While SuperSport Park’s quicker surface did not require a spinning ally for Keshav Maharaj on Sunday, replacing Subrayen, who took 4 for 22 the last time these teams met, may be a priority for Sahara Stadium Kingsmead’s conditions on Wednesday.

“It will be tough to replace him because he’s a star performer who’s done really well for us, but you need your squad to perform in a competition and it’s an opportunity for someone else to contribute and showcase their skills,” said Van Wyk.

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BEHARDIEN PUTS TITANS IN CHARGE

Farhaan Behardien’s brisk half-century guided The Unlimited Titans out of a sticky situation and took them to a 26-run victory over the Cape Cobras in Sunday’s RAM SLAM T20 clash at SuperSport Park.

Behardien smashed an unbeaten 61 from just 31 balls in an innings that stood head and shoulders above any other on the surface, allowing the Titans to post 173 for five.

Its quality became increasingly apparent as the Cobras failed to generate any momentum in their reply, which ultimately finished on 147 for six.

The victory left the Titans second on the table with eight points from three games, but it didn’t always look as though it would come as easily as the final margin suggested.

High on confidence after his heroics at the death against the Warriors in Paarl on Friday, Dane Paterson (3 for 31) grabbed the early wickets of Henry Davids and Grant Mokoena to leave the Titans 22 for two.

Behardien then saw the Titans slip to 74 for four just moments after he came to the crease, with Justin Ontong snuffing out a promising stand between Quinton de Kock (34) and Graeme van Buuren (27) when he removed both batsmen in the space of four deliveries.

Behardien put the innings back on track in a 52-run stand with Qaasim Adams (27 off 19 balls), and then made sure that it finished with a bang by taking 26 from the last two overs along with Albie Morkel.

The Titans opened the bowling with Graeme van Buuren in a move that paid off – the spinner allowed just two runs in his opening over and finished with none for 15 in four overs – but a key moment came when Chris Morris won his tussle with Richard Levi.

After being hit for four and then six by Levi, Morris had the last laugh when he ended the second over by having him caught.

Although Andrew Puttick (27) and Keegan Petersen (27) kept the innings ticking over, they weren’t able to inject the level of urgency required before Puttick was trapped lbw by Ruben Claassen.

Fresh from his exploits with Assupol TUKS in the Red Bull Campus Cricket World Finals, the 22-year-old off-spinner went on to grab the wicket of top-scorer Omphile Ramela (38) and finish with figures of 2 for 34 on his franchise debut.

With Albie Morkel and Morris also finishing with two wickets apiece and Van Buuren restricting the Cobras, the visitors’ chase petered out to leave them with just one win from their three matches to date.

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PARNELL SETS COBRAS UP FOR BONUS POINT WIN

Wayne Parnell’s four-wicket bag and brisk half-centuries from Stiaan van Zyl and Richard Levi carried the Cape Cobras up to second on the Momentum One-Day Cup table as they beat the VKB Knights with a bonus point at Boland Park.

Parnell returned figures of 4 for 40 from his 10 overs, nipping out two wickets in one over during his first spell, as the Knights were held to 211 for seven after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Recognising that the total was well below par, Levi and Van Zyl chased the bonus point right from the get-go, putting on 118 for the first wicket in under 24 overs before Levi was bowled by Malusi Siboto for 71.

Van Zyl was then aided by an aggressive Omphile Ramela, who stroked 43 from 41 balls, and finished unbeaten on 90 as the Cobras achieved the target in 38.1 overs to win by eight wickets.

The ease with which the batsmen completed the chase proved that there were no demons in the pitch, and showed just how well the Cobras bowlers had gone about their business.

Although the Knights made a reasonable start with Reeza Hendricks (30) and Rudi Second (23) putting on 47 for the first wicket, they were swiftly pegged back by Parnell’s brace – which claimed the scalps of Hendricks and Diego Rosier – and then another double breakthrough from Robin Peterson, who dismissed Second and Patrick Botha in consecutive overs.

That left Obus Pienaar to rebuild the innings with his captain, Werner Coetsee, and although the pair put on 107 for the sixth wicket, they were unable to inject any urgency into the innings as the Cobras bowlers all showed excellent discipline.

Peterson recorded figures of 2 for 28 in his 10 overs and Vernon Philander conceded just 31 runs in his quota, while Parnell grabbed the wickets of Coetsee (51) and Shadley van Schalkwyk in the final over of the innings to leave Pienaar unbeaten on 73.

With the batsmen grabbing the bonus point that the bowlers had offered up, the Cobras joined the Dolphins on nine points after three games, but sit behind them on net run-rate.

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Excitement for the start of the 2015 / 2016 season of the MODC

The 2015 / 2016 Momentum One-Day Cup season kicks off on Friday 09 October at SuperSport Park in Centurion. An unseasonably early NZ tour meant that fans had an early taster this year, but now with the start of the season imminent, all eyes are looking to the franchise teams to provide the action and excitement.
The opening weekend starts with two day/night matches on Friday 09 October 2015 at SuperSport Park in Centurion (The Unlimited Titans v. Warriors) and on Saturday 10 October 2015 at the Bidvest Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg (bizhub Highveld Lions v. Cape Cobras).
The opening weekend will be completed by a day match between the Sunfoil Dolphins and the VKB Knights at the Pietermaritzburg Oval on Sunday 11 October 2015.
The Titans are the defending champions, having beaten the Cobras by five wickets in last season’s final at Newlands. It was one of the best limited overs finals at franchise level, producing nearly 600 runs, including outstanding centuries by three Proteas, Richard Levi for the Cobras, and Dean Elgar and Albie Morkel for the Titans. Elgar had previously also scored a century against the Dolphins in the qualifier to book the Titans spot with the table-topping Cobras in the Final.
Now in its fourth season as the official sponsor of all one-day events, Momentum along with CSA is re-focusing their attention on improving match attendance by coming up with innovative ways to add value and enhance fan engagement.
Research has been undertaken to find out what keeps fans away and more importantly what would entice fans and entire families to come and enjoy domestic matches.
Momentum facilitated 24000 tickets last season and this year Momentum and CSA are hoping to at least double those figures and boost attendance at matches. Previous innovations include the Momentum Family Area which has been popular because of the chilled, child-friendly environment with extra activities laid on for families, and free or discounted tickets for Multiply (Momentum’s wellness and rewards programme) members.

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Johann Louw announces his retirement from professional cricket

Nashua Cape Cobras player, Johann Louw today announced that he will retire as a professional cricketer at the end of the current cricket season.

Louw played three ODI’s and two T20 matches for the Proteas and has represented Boland, Cape Cobras, Dolphins, Eagles, Eastern Province, Griqualand West, Middlesex and Northamptonshire. He ended his career in the top 50 all-time wicket takers in South African first class cricket with 443 wickets.

“As this journey comes to an end I am forever grateful for such a long and enjoyable 14 year career.” said Louw. “There were lessons learned and memories made that will last me a life time. From my early days at Griquas to the Dolphins and then finishing an era at the Cape Cobras, where we have been so prolific over the past five seasons, the experiences will be with me forever.”

“I would like to thank a few people for their significant contribution to my career. Firstly, as an early mentor Kepler Wessels was really outstanding. Learning from Shaun Pollock and Lance Klusener during my days with the Dolphins was probably the biggest privilege and rounded me as a cricketer. I want to also say a particular thank you to Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, the Dolphins and a special mention to the Cape Cobras for their belief in me and for the unwavering support over the years. I am thankful to the Lord for blessing me with the opportunity to be a part of such an amazing sporting family. I am excited about what the future holds for me and my family and I will always be a proud supporter of South African cricket.”

“Well done to Johann on an illustrious career. His hard work and dedication has been admired by his peers. He is an inspiration to up and coming cricketers. All the best for the future,” said Nashua Cape Cobras coach, Paul Adams.

“Johann has been a great contributor to first class cricket in South Africa for many years,” said SACA’s Chief Executive, Tony Irish. “He has been an active member of our players association and has performed outstandingly on the field and professionally off it. We thank him for his years of hard work and wish him all the best in his retirement.”

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