Dolphins in quest to break title duck

HAVING narrowly missed out on championship opportunities in the recently-completed season, the Hollywoodbets Dolphins have announced a strong squad that coach Grant Morgan hopes will bring success back to the Durban-based franchise in the 2017/18 season.

After being in the hunt in all three competitions for the majority of their campaign, Morgan was disappointed that his side couldn’t press on and bring home much-wanted silverware.

However, he believes that with a strong core of players, and a few astute signings, they can break their silverware drought.

“If you look back on the season, we were unlucky in the four-day campaign. That was probably the most disappointing for me,” Morgan said.

“We were in the top three of all three competitions after seven games and were first in both the Sunfoil Series and the Momentum One-Day Cup, so to miss out was tough.

“Despite losing a couple of players for next season, we have a strong squad that will grow.”

The Dolphins will be without the services of a handful of long-time servants, including Cameron Delport, Craig Alexander, Daryn Smit and Divan van Wyk.

Smit had announced his retirement from professional cricket until a contract was offered by Derbyshire County Cricket Club, which he accepted. Van Wyk has retired from cricket while Alexander has moved north to the bizhub Highveld Lions.

Delport is playing county cricket for Leicestershire County Cricket Club.

“With Daryn moving on and Divan retiring from the game, it has left some holes but signing a guy like Dane Vilas is a solid replacement, and Sarel Erwee is starting to come into his own, which is encouraging.

“All these guys were terrific players for the Dolphins over the years,” Morgan added.

“It’s great to see Khaya (Zondo) selected to lead the SA ‘A’ team in England this year. He’s performed really well.”