Wicketkeeper-batsman Kyle Verreynne has hailed the positive influence of Cape Cobras coach Ashwell Prince.
Verreynne is one of several new caps in the Proteas squad for this month’s ODI series against England.
Prince, who is a big advocate of franchise players’ involvement in club cricket when time allows, is Verreynne’s coach at the Cobras.
‘I have been quite vocal about club cricket. I believe there is great value in club cricket. Unfortunately, these days, we don’t see much of provincial, franchise and international players playing in club cricket on the weekends. That’s maybe something to look at,’ said Prince recently.
Verreynne represented Cape Town Cricket Club in the Western Province Cricket Association premier league as recently as last month.
The fixture was against Durbanville Cricket Club and was the same week Verreynne and batsman Janneman Malan were named in the ODI squad. Malan represents Durbanville Cricket Club.
‘Ashwell gave me an opportunity at franchise level and that’s a massive thing. Something he has always said to me and all the young guys is that he’s not going to pick you if he doesn’t believe you have the ability,’ said Verreynne.
‘Since I started, that has helped me. Knowing that the coach and management back you gives you a lot of confidence.
‘The challenge will be to do exactly what I’ve been doing for the Cobras under a bit more pressure and scrutiny. I don’t think I’ll change anything, I think it’s just more a case of being able to do the same things.’
The first ODI will be played at Newlands in Cape Town on Tuesday. Kingsmead in Durban and the Wanderers in Johannesburg will host the second and third ODIs, respectively.
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