Prince elected SA players' association president

Ashwell Prince was elected president of the South African Cricketers' Association (SACA) during its annual general meeting in Johannesburg.

"Ashwell has been elected to this position by his fellow players," Tony Irish, CEO of SACA, said. "Its an indication not only of the level of respect that the guys have for him as a player but also as a man who understands the full ambit of his career as a professional cricketer".

On accepting the two-year post, Prince said: "I'm honoured that the other players have placed this level of confidence in me. Our players association now plays an important role in professional cricket and I will do my very best in the position". Prince, 29, averaged 60.67 in his last six Tests and completed 2006 as South Africa's highest run-getter, with 905. He was included in the 15-man squad for the World Cup.

"Our executive committee is made up of a mix of very experienced players and recent ex-players. We are well placed to continue to represent the best interests of South Africa's professional cricketers" Irish added. "A big thanks must go to Errol Stewart who has made an invaluable contribution to SACA and to players over the last five years. We wish him all the best in his new job at the ICC".

Previous SACA presidents include Jonty Rhodes, Mark Boucher and Nicky Boje. Other members of SACA's executive committee also elected were Shafiek Abrahams (vice-president), Nicky Boje (secretary) and Gerald Dros (treasurer). Irish will continued as CEO.