Ottoman Cricket Club appoint former first-class batsman as head coach

Pangarker was a formidable left-handed batsman for Western Province.

Ottoman Cricket Club have hired former first-class batsman Hassan Pangarker as head coach ahead of the 2017-18 Western Province Cricket Association season.

The 48-year-old Pangarkar, who played 26 first-class and five List A fixture for Western Province between 1991 and 2000, will succeed the outgoing Wasfee Samsodien.

“Wasfee stepped down as head coach at the end of the 216-17 season due to increasing work commitments. We have been in search of a new head coach to take the club forward. We have, in the recent past, hired coaches from within the club’s existing membership, with varying degrees of success,” said Ottoman Cricket Club spokesperson Aslam Regal.

“It was, however, felt that we should now look outside of the club for a new coach in order to bring in fresh ideas – looking at the club structures with fresh eyes. After various inquiries for available, quality candidates, we are pleased to inform you that Hassan has been appointed.

Hassan brings with him a wealth of experience as both a player and coach. Interestingly enough, Hassan’s father was an Ottoman Cricket Club member many years ago.”

Promoted from the WPCA first division A in 2015-16, Ottoman Cricket Club finished eighth – one position above the relegated St Augustine Cricket Club and Primrose Cricket Club – in the 2016-17 premier league, after two victories in nine attempts.

Victoria Cricket Club and Milnerton Cricket Club will replace St Augustine CC and Primrose CC in the 2017-18 premier league.