WP CEO: Zubayr Hamza was in our plans, Tshepo Moreki got a very, very lucrative offer

Zubayr Hamza cricketZubayr Hamza.

Western Province Cricket Association chief executive officer Michael Canterbury has outlined some of the reasoning behind batsman Zubayr Hamza and seamer Tshepo Moreki‘s departures for the Lions.

Hamza, Moreki and leg-spinner Junaid Dawood have exited Western Province for the Lions ahead of the 2023-24 domestic season in South Africa.

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“Unfortunately, we have lost a number of players, including Zubayr. We had extensive discussions with him over a period of time,” said Canterbury.

“We made it clear to him that he was a part of our plans. After a number of discussions, he decided to go. We are sad to see him go, but we wish him all the best.

“Tshepo received a very, very lucrative offer. Junaid has his first full contract in professional cricket.”

Batsman David Bedingham, meanwhile, has rejoined Western Province’s list of contracted players. All-rounder Onke Nyaku and Mthiwekhaya Nabe have returned from South Western Districts and the Warriors, respectively, and batsman Valentine Kitime has joined from Boland.

“We are happy to have David back. Mthi’ is back, too, and Kitime is a good addition to the squad as well,” added Canterbury.

All-rounder Juan James, who debuted in first-class cricket for North West last season, has returned to Western Province. He has signed a rookie contract.

Ethan Cunningham, who was our rookie, has not been renewed,” concluded Canterbury.

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