Amla opts out of WP deal due to ‘future endeavours’
WESTERN Province’s preparations for the new Cricket South Africa first-class structure continue to be hampered after Proteas legend Hashim Amla’s proposed move to Newlands fell through yesterday.
Amla, 38, is the latest loss WP have suffered after former coach Ashwell Prince permanently joined the Bangladesh coaching staff last month as a batting consultant, while Vernon Philander also accepted an offer on Monday to be the Pakistan bowling coach for the T20 World Cup.
Philander was due to captain the WP first-class team for the forthcoming season, although discussions are still ongoing relating to the former Proteas seamer’s playing future.
Although originally named in the Province squad for the 2021/22 season, Amla will also now no longer be turning out in the blue and white.
“I have always enjoyed my time playing at Newlands for the Cape Cobras and working as the batting consultant at the Cape Town Blitz, and I want to thank Western Province for their open communication throughout the entire contracting (period),” Amla told Independent Media yesterday.
“I have made this decision based on where I am currently in my career, and with a view to my future endeavours. I want to wish the squad all the best for the coming season.”
The holder of South Africa’s highest Test score of 311 not out has remained active since retiring from international cricket after the 2019 World Cup, having just enjoyed a successful season with Surrey in the English County Championship.
In 12 matches thus far, Amla has amassed 771 runs, which includes an undefeated 215, at an average of 51.40.
Amla’s absence is a major loss for WP not only due his possible run-scoring contributions, but also to the role he would have played in the development of young batsmen. “It’s obviously hugely disappointing that Hashim will not be donning the WP colours this season. He would have been a huge asset to the team on and off the field, especially working with the group of talented young batsmen we have at our disposal,” WP chief executive Michael Canterbury said yesterday.
“I want to thank Hashim and his representatives for the open interaction over these past couple of weeks, and we wish him everything of the best in the next stage of his career.”