Photo Credit: Warriors Cricket
Changes have been made in the management of Eastern Province Cricket (EPC) in order to ensure that the game of cricket in the province survives the economic challenges caused by Covid-19.
Former Proteas spin bowler, National Selector, CSA High Performance spin bowling coach and current EPC General Manager Shafiek Abrahams has been appointed acting Chief Executive of EPC.
This follows a decision by the EPC board to implement and fast-track the EPC Sustainability Project in the light of the current economic situation facing many CSA affiliates and cricket in general in the Eastern Cape.
Abrahams is standing in for Dr Mark Williams, who has been seconded to lead and execute the sustainability strategy on a full-time basis.
“Mark is a former banking director who holds a commercial qualification and doctoral degree and is a natural fit to lead the EPC’s Sustainability Project,” says EPC president Donovan May.
He says 2020 has been a tough year for EPC, which has been forced to operate with budget cuts due to the curtailment of the season and not being able to allow spectators to attend games due to Covid-19 regulations.
“The view of the board is that the financial prognosis remains bleak in the short-term.
“Failure to develop alternative sources outside the tradition revenue streams will result in major financial challenges for the company.
“Shafiek has been in the cricket system for a long time, and we thank him for accepting the position as Acting Chief Executive Officer for the duration of Mark’s secondment,” says May.
“It is an honour and privilege to serve the region and the people where I started my cricketing career and I look forward to making a difference in my new role,” says Abrahams. His appointment came into effect on December 16, 2020.
Name of Author: Cricket South Africa
Cricket South Africa (CSA) governs cricket in South Africa. Formed in 2002, it succeeded the United Cricket Board of South Africa (UCB) and became the sole governing body in 2008. CSA oversees all levels of cricket, including national teams for men and women, and is a full ICC member and SASCOC affiliate.