Bloemfontein. - Paul Harris decided to give Johann Rupert a birthday present to test out the theory that a healthy body host a healthy mind and that a balanced individual will perform better when it comes to the challenges of life and will become leaders in their respective fields. For this reason the Ewie and Hansie Cronjé project was established.

The chief executive officer of the Free State Cricket Union, Johan van Heerden supports the above. “I can not wait for the results to be delivered. I would also like to thank Mr. Mickey Gordon for initiating this program and arranging the financial backing of the project,” said Van Heerden.

The Ewie and Hansie Cronjé project is a study in which the strength and conditioning coach of the Chevrolet Knights, Adrian le Roux would develop fast bowlers over the duration of three years. Two bowlers who represented the South African Schools’ side in 2010, Keagan Rafferty and Duanne Olivier, will take part in the project. Rafferty also captained the national schools’ side. Van Heerden said that the project kicks off with the two best candidates that the Coca-Cola Khaya Majola Week delivered during the tournament hosted by the Free State Cricket Union.

“It is a great challenge, but also a huge opportunity to use the data and information I have gathered over ten years to develop fast bowlers. It is an exciting project,” said Le Roux. He was the fitness guru for the Proteas for four years. The aim of the project is to develop fast bowlers who will play at an elite level.

Olivier was named the bowler of the week at the conclusion of the Coca-Cola Khaya Majola Week in Bloemfontein. He grabbed 12 wickets at an amazing average of 6.92 runs per wicket during the tournament. He also showcased his talent for the national schools’ side against the Chevrolet Knights. Olivier bowled seven overs against a quality batting line-up and grabbed one wicket while conceding only 17 runs.

His best bowling performance during the week was in the time cricket match against Western Province. He got rid of four batsmen for a mere 15 runs in Western Province’s first innings and followed it up with incredible figures of 3/3 in the second innings.

Rafferty was named the allrounder of the Coca-Cola Khaya Majola Week. He started the week on a high when he captured three wickets for only six runs in his Free State’s first match against Border. He also produced a half-century in his side’s match against South Western Districts. Rafferty was also rewarded for his dedication and the manner in which he presented himself and his team during the week with the Spirit of the Week award.

Both players will study at the University of the Free State, the incumbent national club cricket champions. Rafferty, who got four exemptions in his matric exams, will study physiotherapy, while Olivier will be studying accountancy.

“They are two South African Schools’ players. We couldn’t have better players to take part in the study. Both of them have a lot of potential,” said Sarel Cilliers, coach of the Chevrolet Knights.

“We are excited about the project. It is good for us to get two athletes of quality due to the high intensity of the project. The players will be at our disposal for three years during the duration of the project which is also a huge positive for Kovsies. We are looking forward to see what the results of their studies will be,” said Arno van Niekerk, manager of Kovsie Cricket.

“This is a very positive initiative to produce more bowlers for the future. The study of the bowlers is as important as the development of the players involved. We will learn how to handle fast bowlers in future. This program is also important for South African cricket and the future of fast bowlers at national level,” said Cilliers. - FSCU