Head appointed SA’s youngest captain
Up and coming batsman Travis Head has been appointed the 57th captain of South Australia – and its youngest ever.
SACA Chief Executive Keith Bradshaw announced this morning that the 21-year-old would take over the leadership from Johan Botha, who had been captain since 2012.
Wicketkeeper Tim Ludeman will be vice-captain.
Bradshaw said South African Botha had “selflessly stepped aside from the captaincy as a commitment to the long-term success of South Australian cricket”.
Botha captained South Australia in 23 first-class matches and 17 domestic one-day matches.
“Johan has been working with the West End Redbacks to set up succession planning for the leadership of the team,” Bradshaw said.
“After considering the options during the Bupa Sheffield Shield break, he approached us to explain his position and propose a change of leadership.
“We began a commitment with Johan to strengthen our young squad and develop leadership opportunities; his influence on the playing group on and off the field has been outstanding.”
Bradshaw said Head had established himself in the Redbacks’ team.
Apparently responding to fears about Head’s inexperience, Bradshaw pushed Head’s early leadership qualities as a former captain of the successful South Australian under 19 team in 2012-13.
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“Travis’ appointment demonstrates a long-term focus for our young Redbacks team. This is a long term decision with long term success in mind,” Bradshaw said.
“Travis has demonstrated an ability to show resilience under pressure on the field in his short time paying for South Australia.
“Off-field, Travis is already well respected by the entire cricket community both in South Australia and around the country.
“We are excited to appoint a young, capable leader who we believe can achieve higher honours in his cricketing career.”
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