Eastern Province Cricket (EPC) extends its condolences to the family of Neville Francis, one of the best batsmen the province has produced.
His family confirmed his passing on Wednesday, August 3.
“A prolific left-handed batsman, Neville played sport in an era that had no formal records kept to showcase their talents,” says Eastern Province Cricket president Dai-Tai Marais.
“Armpie, as he was affectionately known, played with and against the greatest cricketers in the non-racial era.
“On behalf of Eastern Province Cricket, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Sheila, his family and his cricket family on the sad loss of our cricket friend Neville.
“Our prayers and thoughts are with you all at this difficult time,” she says.
“Neville is remembered as one of a handful of cricketers to score two centuries in a single match – in a Dadabhay Trophy provincial match,” says EPC chief executive officer Eugene Jacobs.
“Francis was one of the first sporting legends from the region to be inducted in the PE Sports Legends Trust hall of fame.
“His memory also lives on the hearts of all those whom he played and worked with over the years.
“Our thoughts are with the family,” says Jacobs.
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.