Lorgat unconcerned about being replaced

Haroon Lorgat, South Africa's chief selector, says he has no issues if he is replaced from the post he has held for four years. Cricket South Africa (CSA) hold their AGM on Friday and Lorgat's position, and possible replacements, is expected to be on the agenda.

South Africa reached the semi-finals of the World Cup, but erratic performances culminating in an emphatic loss to Australia elicited criticism back home. But Lorgat said he would not have any hard feelings if he was replaced.

"I don't feel at all like a scapegoat, my term was always going to stop at the World Cup and I would have no issues if I was replaced," Lorgat told SuperCricket.

Media reports have suggested that Lorgat is definately out of the running and provinces have put forward the names of Joubert Strydom, Mustapha Khan and Shafiek Abrahams. Khan and Strydom are current selectorsm, while Abrahams is better known for his media work than the sole ODI he played as an off-spinner in 2000. The ultimate decision, however, will be taken by the board itself.

Lorgat criticised reports that he was already a non-starter to retain his position. "It has always been a board appointment although provinces are welcome to make their nominations. I just wish journalists would phone first to check their facts before writing their stories."

Lorgat also hit back at criticism that players like Vernon Philander and Thandi Tshabalala did not get enough opportunity during the tour to Ireland in June.

"When we went to Ireland, it was always our plan that each player would play in two of the matches and we achieved that.

"Vernon played his two matches and by then I would have been quite happy to send him home with a big green tick next to his name. We saw what we needed to see from him during his two matches."