'Howzat, Ump?' Domestic cricket player transfers

The upcoming domestic cricket season gets underway in August. Keenan Heemmonsbey from Daily Maverick joined me recently on THT to give an update on the latest player transfers.

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Petersen returns to the Boland

Keegan Petersen returns to the Boland. He will no longer be part of the Dolphin outfit, heading back home to the Paarl Rocks. And I get the sense, given the player’s comments in the media, that he never really settled at the Dolphins: “a sense of belonging forms biggest part of my decision”.

It is a welcome home and a move I feel can tip the balance of power in domestic cricket.

Traditionally, the northern teams dominate competitions but this season may be different. Paarl has the squad to compete and are a settled side. Notwithstanding the young guns (including fast-bowler Glenton Stuurman), the experienced heads like Faf Du Plessis, the Malan brothers, and Lungi Ngidi can catapult the Cape Side to challenge for trophies this season. Dare I say in all formats?

Before I count my chickens, let’s first see who the head coach will be as JP Duminy returns to the Proteas as batting coach. The names in the hat are: Paul Adams, Justin Ontong and Roger Telemachus. Who would you like to see leading the coaching staff?

Hamza exits Boland cricket

Boland’s neighbours may struggle this season with the exit of – amongst others – Zubayr Hamza. He will be joined by his Western Province teammates, fast-bowler Tsepho Moreki and leg-break bowler Junaid Dawood at the highveld next season.

Hamza returns after almost a year follwoing a doping transgression but is looking forward to contributing for the Lions. Junaid Dawood also gives the Joburg outfit options in the bowling department, especially when they head to the coast.

The Free State loses star players

The one side that has suffered heading into the new season is The Free State. They have lost many star players due to their relegation to the second division. This is very difficult for supporters. Plus, the limitations around squad numbers when dropping divisions, makes the prospects of gaining immediate promotion very challenging.

Seeking better options, the Knights have lost: Gerald Coetzee and Mathew Kleinveldt to the Titans. Patrick Krugar and Alfie Mothoa head to the coast, joining The Warrioris for the 23/24 season.

Another former Knight’s player Pite van Biljon takes a chance on the newly promoted Tuskers outfit. The Tuskers, formerly KZN Inland, defeated the Northern Cape Heat to gain promotion. Former Dolphin Coach, Grant Morgan is the new head coach taking over from Michael Smith who has joined The Lions.

I have lost a bit of touch with the domestic season recently but I’m chomping at the bit to see what the teams can do. Chatting to Keenan has really got me excited about seeing what the players can achieve. I agree with Ben Stokes, cricket must be clear whether Test cricket is still relevant. Treating it as a stepchild is harmful. Is there not place for all formats? I will ask Keenan the next time we chat.