Batsman Shane Dixon has left Avendale Cricket Club – and will play for Wynberg Cricket Club in the 2019-20 Western Province Cricket Association first division D.
Dixon was the 2018-19 WPCA first division A’s third-highest run-scorer, after Northerns Goodwood Cricket Club’s Ian Cockbain and Green Point Cricket Club’s Zac Elkin. Dixon struck 672 runs in 21 innings, at an average of over 33, according to WebSports.
Dixon’s tally, however, was not enough to prevent Avendale Cricket Club from ending in 10th position across the 12-team standings, which prompted relegation to the 2019-20 first division B.
“This won’t be my first time with Wynberg Cricket Club. I’ve played for them before – and I feel now is the time to give back to them for what they did for me,” Dixon told Club Cricket SA.
“I’ll be looking to help the junior players, so they can shine. I want to be a mentor to them, while playing, of course. I want to help them grow the way they play.
“I am grateful for having scored all those runs for Avendale, as now I can take that success and share the experience gained with others.”
Wynberg Cricket Club competed in the 2018-19 first division C. Just three wins in 18 matches, however, has seen them relegated to the 2019-20 first division D.
Former Avendale Cricket Club head coach Marcus Oliphant, meanwhile, has also rejoined Wynberg Cricket Club.
“It was an absolute privilege to work with Avendale, but the time is right for me to return to Wynberg and attempt to help them get back into the first division C,” Oliphant told Club Cricket SA.
“I wish Avendale all the best. They are a solid bunch of guys and I trust they are in for a good season ahead. Wynberg are also full of good players and people – and it’ll be great to be with them again as well.”
Avendale Cricket Club, too, have lost seamer Jody Lawrence to current premier league and National Club Championship title holders Durbanville Cricket Club.