Peterson steps down as Highveld Lions captain

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JOHANNESBURG – Several events within the team scenario subsequent to the match in Cape Town during the festival of cricket led to a situation where the Chairman of Lions Cricket (Pty) Ltd, Archie Pretorius, instructed the Convener of the Selectors, Hussein Manack, to meet with the captain and the coach to clarify their roles and responsibilities.

Unfortunately Petersen perceived this as interference by the Convenor of the Selectors and the Board. Petersen indicated that he would rather step down and despite efforts to convince him to delay the decision, he informed the team on the morning of the match that he had stepped down.

Tsolekile took over the captaincy for the remainder of the RAM SLAM T20 with Jean Symes, who is currently injured, continuing in his position as the vice-captain. Tsolekile was appointed on Sunday morning.

“It was a bit unexpected but, as a professional, one must always be able to step up to the plate when your name is called. I have lead the team before and have always enjoyed this. I will try my best to carry on in the footsteps of Alviro,” Tsolekile said.

“I want to thank Alviro for his leadership and contribution as captain, on and off the field, over the past few years. Knowing Alviro as a professional, he will continue to be a great asset to the team as senior player,” said Geoff Toyana, Head Coach of the team.

Greg Fredericks, Chief Executive Officer of the bizhub Highveld Lions, said he respected Petersen’s decision, even though it came out of the blue. “I also want to thank Alviro for his leadership the past few years when the Lions achieved the most success in recent times. We do however have to look forward as we still have two competitions in which we want to do well. I also want to thank Thami for agreeing to take over the captaincy at such short notice.”