United Cricket Club have welcomed former Cape Cobras fast bowler Francois Plaatjies for the remainder of the 2017-18 Western Province Cricket Association first division A.
Plaatjies played 20 first-class matches between 2007 and 2014 – and will boost a United Cricket Club outfit eager to gain promotion to the premier league. They had been relegated to the first division A at the end of the 2015-16 season.
Their 2017-18 campaign enjoyed a successful start, on the back of 28 October’s comfortable victory over Avendale Cricket Club.
United Cricket Club are captained by the talented Mujahid Behardien, who succeeded the outgoing Muneer Alexander earlier this year.
“You need to be versatile, so there isn’t one particular style that I would employ as a captain. At times, you need to be aggressive and go for the killer blow, while other times you need to be more strategic by accepting that the opposition has the momentum,” said Behardien.
“At that stage of the game, it is essential to minimise the damage as far as possible. Hopefully, I can bring some fire and controlled aggression back into the team and club. In saying that, there is one thing that we undoubtedly already have – and that is a hunger for success.”
They also sport the services of former Montrose Cricket Club and Ottoman Cricket Club batsman Qaasim Adams.
“Qaasim is a living example of how close everyone is to playing at the next level. He will add a lot of value from both a mentorship and player perspective,” added Behardien.
“I feel they can bring out the best in each individual – and I think there are a few surprises in store this season.”
United Cricket Club will host WPCA first division A newcomers Kraaifontein Cricket Club on 4 and 11 November.