Third time lucky for Nyoka?

2008-09-11 22:26

Christo Buchner

Johannesburg - Mtutuzeli Nyoka, chairperson of Gauteng cricket, is hoping it will be a case of third time lucky in his goal to become the new boss of South African cricket.

On two previous occasions, in 2001 against the late Percy Sonn and last year, he couldn't pull it off.

Last year he withdrew his application to oppose Norman Arendse for the chairmanship at the last moment.

Nyoka has declined to elaborate on his reason for doing so and on what took place behind the scenes.

"I could probably say a lot if I wanted to, but I believe that what happened in the past should be left at that. I want to look to the future and want to see us build up South African cricket in the interest of everyone," he said.

Nyoka believes that unity in South African cricket will be his first priority.

"Everyone must pull together in order to be able to move forward. Obviously, developing the game at grassroots level is also a priority," he said.

With Cricket South Africa (CSA) having been transformed from an amateur and professional company into a Section 21 non-profit organisation, new elections have to be held for all the positions.

The reign of the incumbent, Norman Arendse, is shaky because of a strong feeling in local cricket that he is no longer the right man for the leadership position.

Nyoka has also pulled off a coup by getting ex-cricket boss and the former chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC), Ray Mali, in his corner.

Mali has pledged his support in an advisory capacity to Nyoka.

"Ray has so much experience at the highest level that I count it a great privilege to have him with me," Nyoka said on Thursday.

Things could get hot during the election which takes place on September 26.

Arendse said in Dubai that he does not intend relinquishing his post without a fight.

He believes the election to be unconstitutional and that there is no reason for holding another election now.

- Beeld