Pieter Malan has his eyes set on winning silverware as captain of the Rocks, recently renamed from Boland, during the upcoming 2021/2022 season.

Malan’s appointment comes soon after Gbets, the sports betting subsidiary of the Goldrush Gaming Group was confirmed as exclusive naming rights partner this season.

Head coach of the Rocks, Adrian Birrell who was at the helm when the Paarl Rocks won the 2019 Mzansi Super League title made the announcement, today.

“The appointment of Pieter Malan as captain of the Rocks was made because of the need for an experienced cricketer with solid leadership qualities to lead the team in the first season in the new format.

“Pieter has played over 160 First Class and 110 List A matches, his experience is vast and he is well placed to plan and strategise in all our campaigns. I’m really looking forward to working alongside him.”

Cricket Boland CEO’s James Fortuin was equally excited with Malan’s appointment.

Fortuin said: “This is indeed exciting times for the cricket community of the region and serves as confirmation of our intentions to make an impact this season.

“When we set out in assembling our squad for the season we then pencilled in Pieter as captain. We believe he is the right person for the task at hand and that is to win silverware this season.”

Pieter Malan who has played three test matches for the Proteas has thus far amassed over 11 000 runs in his career said he shares in Cricket Boland’s vision.

Malan commented: “I’m older, wiser and delighted to be entrusted with the captaincy duties this season. I believe we have assembled a good squad blended with experience and young players.

“I always enjoyed the role as captain and I see my role more than as an on-field leader but also off the field as mentor to young players. When I was offered the opportunity to join the GbetsRocks I did not hesitate for one moment.”

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix