Clive of India resumes skipper's mantle

Although Adam Bacher was extremely successful as stand-in captain for Gauteng, Clive Eksteen will again assume that responsibility for the semifinals of the Standard Bank Cup now that he is back from Test duty in India.

Bacher took over after left-arm spinner Eksteen went to India, and the opening batsman proved his leadership credentials by guiding Gauteng to four wins in five matches in the limited-overs competition.

But, in spite of a morning newspaper report which suggested the Gauteng selectors were now in something of a quandary about who should lead the side for the remainder of the season, convener Barry Skjoldhammer on Thursday insisted it had never been an issue.

"Adam did very well when he filled in for Clive and we all acknowledge that, but there was never any suggestion of him replacing Clive as captain," said Skjoldhammer.

"It was made perfectly clear before Clive left for India, but now that Clive is back he will lead the team against Eastern Province in the semifinal next week.

"Any suggestions that the success enjoyed by Adam has put us on the spot are nonsense."

Skjoldhammer said provincial selectors were delighted with the job done by Eksteen this season - he led the side to the SuperSport Series trophy - but said Bacher's performance had been noted for the future.

"Adam obviously has the ability to lead the side and it is great to know we have someone like that to take over the captaincy in the future. But we wouldn't dream of taking the captaincy away from Clive, who has done a brilliant job this season."

Gauteng travel to Port Elizabeth next week for the first-leg semifinal match against Eastern Province. The return leg will be at the Wanderers on Friday, with a decider, if necessary, at the same venue on Sunday, March 19.