Share

Visa issues to scupper Donald’s Kent role?

Cape Town - English cricket county Kent are reportedly on the lookout for an interim replacement for Allan Donald after the former Proteas fast bowler was denied a visa.

Donald was appointed as assistant to new head coach Matt Walker in January.

Last month a report in The Times suggested that the former fast bowler was facing a delay in obtaining the necessary paperwork as he did not hold the correct coaching qualifications - the English Cricket Board (ECB) criteria of a Level 3 coaching qualification.

Kent were hopeful that they could resolve the situation and have Donald on board before their players report back for pre-season training.

However, the complications mean that the former Proteas bowler will likely miss the start of the One-Day Cup season, which starts on Thursday, April 27 against Hampshire in Canterbury.

According to Kent Online, the English county franchise are currently weighing-up whether to appeal the ECB ruling or try to fast-track Donald through the remainder of the qualification, which he has already been working towards, a process which could take months.

There have been reports that former Australian bowler Jason Gillespie is set to fill in the position of interim assistant coach until Donald's visa issue is resolved.

Donald, who was one of the greatest fast bowlers of his generation, had spells as a player in English cricket with Warwickshire and Worcestershire.

The 50-year-old has also served as bowling coach to the New Zealand, South Africa and England national teams.

Donald played 72 Tests and took 330 wickets, and played 164 ODIs for the Proteas with 272 wickets.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE