South African domestic veteran steps down as captain

He has played 11 Tests for South Africa and was dropped last year from the team.

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Stephen Cook
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(Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

Highveld Lions is one of the prominent teams in the South African domestic circuit but went through one of their leanest phases in the last season. They finished last but one in the points table in the One-Day Cup and were the wooden spooners in the whites. While they would be looking to do better in the upcoming season, the team has been jolted a severe blow. Their skipper Stephen Cook has resigned as the captain of the team and will continue playing only as a batsman.

Cook has played 11 Test matches for South Africa and has scored 632 runs at an average of over 33. He opened the innings for the team in almost all the matches but was dropped last year after inconsistent showings at the top of the order. He last featured in the national side in March 2017 against New Zealand in Wellington. Aiden Markram has done exceptionally well since then after replacing him and has sealed his position in the team.

Right time to step away

Stephen Cook felt that it was a privilege to lead Highveld Lions over the last few seasons and believed that the team has significantly improved. “It has been an absolute privilege to have led the team for the past number for seasons. I believe that much has been achieved and that during this time, the team has grown significantly. I have been at the helm when we have also overcome significant obstacles and am proud of what we have achieved,” he said according to Independent Online.

The 35-year-old was also of the opinion that the Lions needed a change at the helm and it was the right time to hand over the baton. He also cleared that he will continue to play as a batsman in the team and will remain fully committed to his role in the team.

“With that being said, I believe that in a time of significant change, with a new era of the team dawning, it is the right time to step away from the position. I thank all the players, coaches, staff and management of the team for their support during my tenure and look forward to sharing in many more momentous occasions,” he added.

Chairman lauds his efforts

The Chairman of the Highveld Lions, Dr Oupa Nkagisang, lauded his efforts as the leader of the team and appreciated his contribution while being at the helm. “Stephen has led this team from the heart and we are appreciative of the contribution that he has made. Stephen is a seasoned campaigner who brought value to the team and his long-term association with the team will never go unnoticed,” he said.

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