Publications
Partners
Johannesburg - Alviro Petersen has stepped down as captain of the Lions following what he perceived to be interference by the Board and the Convener of Selectors, the Gauteng Cricket Board (GCB) said on Monday.
Petersen was instructed to meet with the chairman of Lions Cricket Archie Pretorius and Convener of Selectors, Hussein Manack to discuss their responsibilities following their match in Cape Town for the Festival of Cricket last week.
"Unfortunately Petersen perceived this as interference by the convener of the selectors and the Board," said the GCB in a statement.
"Subsequently Petersen indicated that he would rather step down and despite efforts to convince him to delay the decision, he nevertheless informed the team on the morning of the match that he had stepped down."
Thami Tsolekile will take over the captaincy role, after he was appointed on Sunday, for the remainder of the domestic T20 competition for the Lions. Jean Symes, currently injured, would retain his vice-captaincy position.
"It came a bit unexpected but, as a professional, one must always be able to step up to the plate when your name is called," said Tsolekile.
"I have led the team before and have always enjoyed this. I will try my best to carry on in the footsteps of Alviro."
Lions coach Geoffrey Toyana thanked Petersen for his time as skipper.
"I want to thank Alviro for his leadership and contribution as captain, on and off the field, over the past few years," said Toyana.
"Knowing Alviro as a professional, he will continue to be a great asset to the team as senior player."
