The South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) can today confirm that 21-year-old batsman, Travis Head will become the 57th captain of South Australia.
Announced today by SACA Chief Executive, Keith Bradshaw, Head will take over the leadership role from Johan Botha.
Tim Ludeman will join Travis Head in the West End Redbacks’ leadership group as vice-captain.
Botha has selflessly stepped aside from the captaincy as a commitment to the long-term success of South Australian cricket.
Joining the West End Redbacks as captain in 2012, Botha has impressed with his competitiveness, cool head under pressure and strong leadership.
In his three seasons leading South Australia, Botha has contributed to the development of younger players and emerging leaders including Travis Head, Tim Ludeman, Chadd Sayers and Kane Richardson.
After the Redbacks finished last on the Shield table with no wins in 2011/12, Botha has taken the side to within one win of a place in the final the past two seasons, finishing third in 2013/14.
Botha has captained South Australia in 23 first-class matches (W8-L8-D7) and 17 domestic one-day matches (W6-L11).
“Johan has been working with the West End Redbacks to set up succession planning for the leadership of the team,” Bradshaw said.
“After considering the options during the Bupa Sheffield Shield break, he approached us to explain his position and propose a change of leadership.
“We began a commitment with Johan to strengthen our young squad and develop leadership opportunities; his influence on the playing group on and off the field has been outstanding.”
Travis Head has emerged as one of the most impressive young South Australian players in recent years and has already established himself in the West End Redbacks’ line-up at just 21 years-of-age.
He showed strong leadership qualities when he captained South Australia to the Under 19 national title for the first time in 15 years at the 2012/13 National Championships, where he was also awarded the Brian Taber Medal for the Player of the Championship.
Head was identified as a future leader and has been part of the Redbacks’ leadership development program. At 21 years-of-age, he will become the youngest ever captain for South Australia.
“Travis’ appointment demonstrates a long-term focus for our young Redbacks team. This is a long term decision with long term success in mind,” Bradshaw said.
“Travis has demonstrated an ability to show resilience under pressure on the field in his short time playing for South Australia.
“Off-field, Travis is already well respected by the entire cricket community both in South Australia and around the country.
“We are excited to appoint a young, capable leader who we believe can achieve higher honours in his cricketing career.”
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