By Fakir Hassen, IANS
Johannesburg : Cricket South Africa, the controlling body for the sport in the country, is more interested in politics than in the well-being of the game, resulting in a wealth of talent being lost, according to veteran player Graeme Pollock.
Recognised as one of the best batsmen ever and named South Africa’s Player of the Century a few years ago, Pollock, 63, told the Afrikaans weekly Rapport here he believed that we was considered to be “not good enough” by Cricket SA to coach the national squad.
“That’s the only conclusion I can reach,” the legendary left-hand batsman said.
Pollock, who ended his career after 23 Tests with a batting average of 60.97, said the low profile he has had since retirement was not of his own doing.
“From day one I was more than willing to get involved in South African cricket, but they clearly felt that I did not have much to offer.
“Once or twice I was used as a batting consultant, but besides that I could get involved very seldom.”
Pollock said the manner in which former players were being sidelined was a matter for concern.
“It’s really a heartbreaking situation. Allan (Donald) was almost lost to the country – and now Gary (Kirsten) will also be coaching India for the next two years.
“What is of even greater concern, is the 34 or so players (from South Africa) who are playing in English county cricket. The boys choose to break their ties with South Africa than to stay on here.”
Although he did not mention it directly, Pollock’s comments were related to the transformation issues at Cricket SA, which has given priority to the development of black cricketers who were previously disadvantaged by not being able to play in the national side because of apartheid laws.
Pollock was speaking at the end of a weeklong international cricket camp in Potchefstroom, west of here.
Other participants at the camp – aimed at sharing expertise with newer players – included Gary Kirsten, former Proteas opener and newly-appointed India coach; David Capel, head coach of Northamptonshire in England; English paceman Ian Point and South African veteran Jimmy Cook.