It is with great pride that I am able to introduce you to the EASTERN CRICKET TEAM, who has recently joined the ranks of the countries leading cricket teams. This year, we were given the same cricket privileges as any other test playing union in the country. Unfortunately in order to maintain international standards it is no easy road to achieve ones goals. Determination, effort and enthusiasm are not always enough.

The Unions participation at international level was impressive, with the Union successfully hosting the South African National Team (Proteas) for the first time in a One Day International against New Zealand at Willowmoore Park Cricket Stadium, the home of the Eastern Cricket Union. The One-Day International against New Zealand drew a capacity crowd to the stadium and whose participation in the game convinced the powers that be to schedule more international fixtures at Willowmoore Park. You can rest assured that Willowmoore Park is on the international calendar of the United Cricket Board of South Africa for forthcoming international cricket fixtures.

Yet again we experienced a very successful season both on and off the field and the new format of administration adopted for the last two years has paid handsome dividends. The amateur and professional divisions have executed outstanding results that were both successful and highly productive for the Union at large.

Provincial Cricket

The Director responsible for this portfolio namely Andrew O'Connor, is to be congratulated for the sterling work executed during the summer. Last season saw Easterns excel into greater heights and standing out in South African Cricket, breaking the standards set in previous seasons. The "A" Team narrowly missed entry into the SuperSport Series final, finishing a respectable third on the log, out-running most of the major provinces. The standard of cricket played in the SuperSport Series was of a very high quality and "top draw stuff'. This not only surprised the cricket world but also the media who were shocked and spell bound with the teams performance.

The team also gave new meaning to the Standard Bank Cup Competition by giving the South African public action entertainment, excitement thrills and value for money with their outstanding performances. After a gallant effort and missing victory by sometimes one run in some of the crucial nail biting matches, Easterns finished fifth in the Standard Bank Cup Competition. The players of note that showed outstanding performance were Derek Crookes, Mike Rindel, Andre Nel, Dyaln Jennings, Andre Seymore, Gareth Flusk, Pierre Du Bruyn, Albie Morkel, Anthony Botha and Brendan Reddy. They are to be congratulated for their efforts and hope this will spread over to the rest of the team who also performed to the best of their ability. Hearty congratulations to the team for a job superbly executed on and off the field.

The "B" Team under the coaching skills of Solly Chotia and the captaincy of Colin Kruger performed successfully, accounting for victories in both the three-day and one-day competitions of their UCB Bowl fixtures. This has sent a signal to the "A" team of the competition that exists down under. Congratulations are in order for an outstanding achievement during the season.

Ray Jennings was a tower of strength as Head Coach and his experience and expertise paid handsome dividends that steered the teams to many victories. His ability to out think his opponents and introduce new playing tactics worked for the teams. The highlight of the season was the inclusion of Andre Nel into the South African National Squad to tour West Indies. Without the help of Ray, this would not have happened sooner.

The future once again will be a challenging one for Easterns. The introduction of youth and local talent into the team will result in growth, progress and success of our youth, who form such a vital component of our future that will enable the province to be self sufficient in years to come.

Marketing and sales & Public Relations

This department, headed up by Mohammed Sibda the Director of Marketing, has shown significant growth in sales. The Union enjoys multiple sponsorship in the advertising and the professional sectors. We are sure that with the excellent performance of our Provincial Team, which has transformed into good product to enable the marketing team to acquire a provincial sponsor this coming season.

Cricket, as one of the many entertainment sports must take the advantage to focus and forge ahead to compete against rivals so that it will capture the niche market it is looking for. New innovations are to be adopted in stadium advertising and entertainment at Willowmoore Park.

The urgent need for a brand name is long overdue and we are sure that this situation will be in place long before the commencement of the new season.

Our 17 players would benefit immensely from the advertising and sponsorships, as this will enable us to upgrade our facilities. And with the possibility of greater funds we would be able to offer top players greater incentives thereby attracting them to our Province.

With 2003 Cricket World Cup a definite for SA, the United Cricket Board of South Africa has granted us 3 matches. This can only attract the masses of cricket made enthusiasts in SA, and we would like to accommodate them in the greatest cricket style we can. It will also ensure international and national television coverage, local and international press coverage and many international spectators.

Stadium Affairs

Cricket is ultimately entertainment and a cricket stadium must be equipped to accommodate all the pressures such as easy access, comfortable seating facilities, parking facilities, good food and beverage providers, toilet facilities, security and medical services. To acquire favourable ratings the stadium is to conform as mentioned.

The Board of Directors in their wisdom approved the major development of the stadium, this due to the fact that Willowmoore Park has been granted World Cup matches in 2003. The Board in conjunction with Protekon, our professional advisors and surveyors has spent many hours burning the midnight oil in planning and developing the stadium. This is an on-going project and will be completed in time for the big event.

Easterns Historic Achievements of 2000-2001