Pillans departs for Surrey

Sunfoil Dolphins fast bowler Mathew Pillans is set to leave South African shores in the coming weeks to take up a county cricket offer with Surrey.

The 24 year-old has taken 114 First Class wickets in his 31 matches at an average of 23.72.

“Mat Pillans has been released from the franchise setup as he has taken up an offer to go play county cricket,” said Sunfoil Dolphins CEO Pete de Wet.

“He intends to be in the UK within the next two weeks to start his assignment there,” he added.

The young talent has performed admirably for the franchise and KZN Inland’s provincial side since his move down from Pretoria.

“We wish Mat well,” said De Wet. “He has been a good performer for us at the Sunfoil Dolphins and particularly in the provincial side.”

“It is a pity to see him go but he’s got aspirations to play at that level and he felt it was right for his career to make that move.”

For Pillans, the decision wasn’t an easy one after having settled into both the Durban lifestyle and the Sunfoil Dolphins franchise, pinpointing his return of 10/129 against the Knights in 2014/15 as his greatest highlight.

“It has been a really tough decision to make but I have been given a great opportunity that I’m looking forward to,” said Pillans.

“It has been great to have had the chance to work with the senior guys at the Dolphins; playing alongside them and to be around them to listen has really helped me take my game forward.

“I think every player’s dream is to produce your career best performance at the highest level you’ve played at and so to have taken my first, and only, ten wicket haul for the Dolphins last season was very special.

“I’m going to miss the Durban vibe and all the people but I’m also very, very excited about what my new opportunity holds,” he added.

De Wet also confirmed that contract negotiations are currently underway and that while the Union remains in discussion with various players, off-spinner Thandi Tshabalala’s contract will not be renewed.