Klusener's referral over Dolphins sacking dismissed

The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) has dismissed former Dolphins coach Lance Klusener's referral over his sacking from the franchise in February, when the season's fixtures had not been completed.

The CCMA is an independent dispute resolution body, not a court of law. It looks at, among other things, unfair dismissals.

Klusener had sought arbitration after his contract was not renewed, but the CCMA has now ruled in the favour of Dolphins.

"In the Award, the CCMA found that Klusener had failed to discharge the onus of proving a legitimate expectation of renewal of the contract existed at the time of the non-renewal," a Dolphins release said.

Dolphins went trophy-less in the 2015-16 season, finishing fifth out of six teams in both the first-class and the one-day cricket, although they reached the final of the 20-over competition.

"When the team failed to match the expectations of the franchise and for that matter the public and fans, any expectation Klusener may have had of renewal, would have diminished," the release added.

Rajesh Behari, acting CEO of Dolphins, welcomed CCMA's move and looked ahead to the upcoming season.

"It is relief to have this matter now resolved, and we can focus all our energies on the upcoming season," he said. "The squad is energised and enthusiastic, and we are encouraged by the pre-season preparations. The conclusion of the CCMA matter involving Lance Klusener now clears the way for everyone at KwaZulu-Natal Cricket to commit all our energies into the new season."

Grant Morgan had been announced as Dolphins' new full-time coach in May.