South African cricket captain Shaun Pollock was awarded the South African Bureau of Standards Silver Medal on Saturday night.

Eugene Julies, President and CEO of the SABS, awarded the medal to Pollock for his "outstanding leadership and inspiration" and for the "difficult task, well done, of repairing South Africa's sporting image in the international arena and (his) efforts to improve the quality of South African cricket in general".

Pollock, who was unable to attend the Award banquet at the Kyalami Castle in Johannesburg, due to prior commitments, said in a video recorded for the occasion that he was delighted to receive an SABS stamp of approval.

The award, which honours South Africans who have made exceptional contributions to the world of quality, was received on his behalf by United Cricket Board member Robbie Kurz, who said that Pollock had taken over from Hansie Cronje in the most difficult circumstances, but that he had led from the front and earned the respect of his team and his country.

Kurz noted that a key element of Pollock's captaincy was the manner in which he led his traumatized team to victory over Australia in the Standard Bank One-Day International Series over Australia in April 2000.

UCB chief executive Gerald Majola said: "We are exceptionally proud that Shaun has received this award and that he makes such an effort to set a wonderful example to all South Africans. Congratulations, Shaun, you continue to inspire us."

© UCB