Lions Cricket and Beyers Swanepoel have reached a mutual agreement to part ways with immediate effect.
This decision follows an incident during the SA One Day Cup final against the Titans at the DP World Wanderers Stadium on Sunday, 29 March, where Swanepoel left the field of play before the conclusion of the match without securing the required approval from Lions Cricket to do so, and the No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to travel to the UK, as mandated by his home union, Lions Cricket, and the national governing body, Cricket South Africa (CSA).
Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright confirmed that, following the completion of all due diligence and internal processes, Swanepoel’s contract has been terminated with immediate effect.
“It has been an unfortunate period for all parties involved but we have now brought the matter to a close, allowing everyone to move forward. At Lions Cricket, we hold ourselves to the highest professional standards and take matters of this nature very seriously.”
Swanepoel has issued an apology to Lions Cricket, his teammates, as well as the Pride’s supporters and partners:
“First and foremost, I would like to thank Lions Cricket for the opportunity to represent the Union – I loved my season representing the Pride and it will always hold a special place in my heart. I sincerely apologise to the entire Lions family for what transpired in the Final and can assure everyone that many lessons have been learnt.”
Lions Cricket extends its appreciation to the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) and Cricket South Africa (CA) for their guidance and support throughout this matter.