Newlands groundsman Evan Flint will trade Cape Town for Johannesburg to become the Wanderers’ new groundsman.

The 38-year-old will effectively replace Bethuel Buthelezi at the Wanderers after 11 years in Cape Town.

‘Central Gauteng Lions wishes to announce the appointment of Evan Flint as grounds manager.  The CGL has decided to elevate the position to a managerial position, reporting directly to the CEO,’ chief executive officer Greg Fredericks said in a statement.

‘Evan will be taking up the position from 1 February 2019. Bethuell will take up the position as the senior groundsman of the Bullring.’

Buthelezi and the Wanderers pitch were heavily scrutinised last season when the Proteas took on India in January. The strip was labelled dangerous and the ground almost received a one-year ban from hosting any international cricket.

Flint, who won Groundsman of the Year at the Cricket South Africa Awards earlier this year, will be at the forefront of rebuilding the reputation at the Bullring.

The strip will be in the spotlight when the Proteas take on Pakistan in the third Test on 12 January.

Flint is still expected to prepare the Newlands wicket for the second Test between South Africa and Pakistan in Cape Town on 3 January.

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