Parsons appointed as Highveld Lions coach

Gordon Parsons has been appointed as the new coach of the Highveld Lions for the 2005-06 season. Parsons, the former Boland and Free State fast bowler, will replace Shukri Conrad, who was named the Western Province/Boland coach.

Parsons is no stranger to the Lions set-up, as he had assisted Conrad in coaching the Lions during the 2004-05 season when the franchise system was put in place. "I am excited about the challenge that lies ahead," said Parsons at a press conference at the Wanderers. "You know there is a lot of to do to win silverware." He added that he would like to utilise the young talented players within the franchise system instead of contracting an overseas player, giving the young ones the opportunity to prove themselves.

Parsons said that the Lions have a balanced team with talented young players as well as established ones who could provide guidance to the youngsters. He also said that the only major change the team would have to make next season would be to play more confidently on the field.

Allan Kourie, the Lions CEO, said, "We took continuity into consideration, being that he already worked with Shukri, the players know him. It's good if you look at that Charl Langeveldt, Garnet Kruger, David Tebrugge worked pretty close with him."