It is with deep regret and shock that the Eastern Cape cricket community has learnt of the passing of Mike Stallenberg.

Stallenberg was a well-known and respected Eastern Cape sports personality, particularly within rugby and cricket circles.

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He played both sports, and later managed with aplomb the provincial teams of the two codes at various times under the aegis of the South African Cricket Board and South African Rugby Union.

One of the many highlights of his career was the 1987-88 season, when Eastern Province won the national trophy.

He also coached the Eastern Province rugby squad, and similarly took it to winning its respective national trophy.

‘Mike was mindful of the needs of non-racial sport,’ says retired Supreme Court of Appeal judge Ronnie Pillay, current chairman of the Eastern Cape’s Warriors cricket franchise.

‘He contributed towards the establishment of a non-racial society in a number of ways and was humble enough to do so without complaint or seeking any reward or blowing any trumpet.

‘His contribution is often forgotten, but the relationship one was able to establish with him went far beyond sport, and I will remember him for his contributions to sport and our friendship,’ said Pillay.

‘Our condolences go to his family and the sports fraternity in the Eastern Cape and we wish them strength in this time of sadness,’ said Dr Mark Williams, chief executive of Eastern Province Cricket and the Warriors.

Photo: Supplied