Western Province Veterans Cricket Association chairperson Fuzlin Levy-Hassen has responded to former selector Wilfred Cilliers’ accusations of nepotism and favouritism this week.
Cilliers and fellow selector Razeen Allie, who were appointed in February 2025, resigned this month.
Allie and Cilliers, alongside convenor Barney Mohamed and selectors Ebrahim Kriel and Fayyaaz Mohiudeen, were responsible for the composition of Western Province Over-40’s squad for next month’s inter-provincial tournament in Port Elizabeth.
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“The executive committee of the WPVCA wishes to address recent comments and allegations that have surfaced publicly via social media and radio regarding our team selection processes for the upcoming inter-provincial tournament,” read Sunday’s statement from Levy-Hassen.
“Given last year’s concerns around governance and selection practices, the newly elected WPVCA executive committee has worked diligently to rebuild trust, ensure transparency, and implement fair processes for all its members. As part of this effort:
- “Clear selection criteria was introduced and communicated to all members;
- “an independent selection panel was appointed, and all season statistics were made available to the selectors;
- “the selection panel was reminded to adhere strictly to these policies and to base their decisions on performance, commitment, and the needs of the team composition; and
- “the executive committee’s role has remained to ratify the final team in consultation and with the approval of all executive committee members, as per the WPVCA’s constitution and policies.
“We have had withdrawals from the team due to work commitments, leave availability, etc, and replacements were made according to the reserve list or, where appropriate, based on team balance and taking into account playing conditions.
“Concerns were raised around the selection of replacement player/s and the composition of the bowling attack. It is important to note that in cases where personal conflict of interest could arise, members recused themselves entirely from related discussions and decisions and proper governance were complied with.
“Two selectors subsequently tendered their resignations. While we respect their decision, it is disappointing that confidential internal matters have been discussed publicly. A selector does not discuss teams/players outside the selection meetings even though he has resigned.”
Wilfred Cilliers.
Cilliers was interviewed by former WPVCA chairperson Nazeem White on Radio 786 on Saturday. Levy-Hassen succeeded White last year.
“The recent radio interview done by a former chairperson of WPVCA is seen as an opportunity for him to use his platform to hit back at the executive committee and its chairperson,” added Levy-Hassen.
“This was blatant in the manner in which the interview was conducted, reflecting personal biases, misinformation and personal attacks, which is regrettable and unprofessional.”
White incorrectly referred to the chairperson as “chairman” multiple times during Saturday’s interview. He also incorrectly referenced the Western Province Veterans Cricket Association as the Western Province Cricket Association twice.
“It also brought the ethical values of the media outlet in question when a presenter was allowed to use bias opinions as an argument where neutrality should have been the order of the day. It should also be noted that the presenter did not invite the executive committee to present their side of the story, as he did with the former selector – a basic requirement of sound journalism,” continued Levy-Hassen.
“These events are unfortunate. WPVCA, however remains, committed to fair, transparent, and accountable governance. While we were initially inclined not to respond to these public statements, the spread of misinformation now compels us to reassure our members:
- “Team selection was conducted within the framework of the agreed policy;
- “no player was selected or excluded on the basis of personal relationships or influence; and
- “processes introduced this season, while not perfect, represent significant progress from past practices and will continue to be reviewed and improved.”
Nazeem White.
Western Province Over-40 are the reigning inter-provincial tournament champions. They beat Easterns Over-40 in 2023’s final. WP Over-40 were captained by former Proteas batsman Ashwell Prince at the time.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Werner Moolman and all-rounders Adi Jackson and Jaco Castle, who were in the 2023 squad, have been selected for the 2025 tournament as well. Moolman has been named captain this year. Former Cape Cobras batsman William Hantam is Moolman’s vice-captain. Levy-Hassen’s husband, Raafick Hassen, has also been selected.
“We urge all members and stakeholders to support the players representing Western Province and to uphold the spirit of veterans cricket – one of camaraderie, fairness, and mutual respect. Thank you for your continued support and understanding,” concluded Levy-Hassen.