Keegan Petersen is new Chorley skipper after Ben Simpkins’ handed plum groundsman appointment
South Africa international star Keegan Petersen is doubling-up as Chorley’s professional and captain this season.
The 32-year-old, who made 14 Test appearances for his country, has been handed the captaincy after Ben Simpkins relinquished the role two months before the start of the season.
Simpkins has taken up a position as Gloucestershire County Cricket Club’s head groundsman.
Director of cricket Oliver Smith admitted it was a blow to lose the skipper so close to the start of the season, but was thankful that Petersen agreed to step into the breach.
“I spoke to Ben most days and he gave me the heads-up that he had been approached for the role,” said Smith. “I just said, ‘Look, you’ve got to take it’ and ultimately, it’s what pays the bills. Ben is incredibly well thought of in his sector.
“He was at Loughborough where England do all their pre-tournament training. He was the main man there and he was head hunted to go to Gloucester.
“He didn’t want to leave us because he’s been part of building this squad which is of a good age and could be around for a while but he just had to take it.
“Was it disruptive? It wasn’t ideal but he went with our best wishes.
“"It’s an amazing opportunity for him – he will be preparing pitches for when England play at Gloucester this season against India in a T20 game.”