Shaun Pollock

Durban-based Shaun Pollock is a former Captain of the South African Cricket team The Proteas. He was a fast-medium seam bowler, with the ability to deliver a quicker ball with accuracy and swing.

The nephew of legendary South African cricketer Graeme Pollock and the son of former South African fast bowler Peter Pollock, expectations from him were high since he started playing for South Africa in 1995/96, in their home series against England. He cemented his place in the team with some excellent performances and found a steady bowling partner in Allan Donald. They were to be the mainstay of South African bowling till Donald’s retirement.

Pollock was also a very useful hard-hitting batsman, whose style bears some resemblance to his famous uncle on occasions. He has normally batted at 7 or 8, with a Test average of over 30 and ODI average above 25. He was also an athletic fielder.

After Hansie Cronje was banned from cricket for life, Pollock took over the captaincy in April 2000. He had the task of boosting the morale of the team in the aftermath of the match-fixing scandal.

He was succeeded by the current captain Graeme Smith. Graeme Smith paid tribute to Pollock, stating “It’s very important that people celebrate what he’s given to South African cricket and what he’s achieved as an individual.

He is friends with golf icon Gary Player and regularly plays in the Gary Player Invitational charity golf series to help raise funds for underprivileged children.

Shaun Pollock has commentated on Supersport, Sky Sports, Star, Fox, Twn, Sunset & Vine. He also coached at the IPL for 3 years.