Looking to continue strong form

The 21-year-old Johannesburg native boards the plane to England on 14 April on a hot streak of form for his franchise side Easterns with a crazy seven scores of 50 plus from his last 8 knocks in all competitions. We can forgive him the eighth as he was unbeaten on 18 as his side knocked off 114 to beat Eastern Cape.

His average has increased significantly and he's now one of the first names on the team sheet in the Easterns middle order.

He registered a maiden First Class century as well as a maiden List A century within that eight innings span, where he averaged a 'mere' 157.

Despite the highs, of which there were many during the South African summer, there were lows too. The rain-affected defeat in the final of the Division Two four-day competition to the Knights being the most significant low point in a run-laden season for the former South African Under 19 international.

"I'm delighted to have the opportunity to come to come to Sileby and excited at the opportunity laying ahead of me," said Marais from his home in Alberton.

Alberton may be home for the right hander, but despite this being his first overseas playing assignment, Sileby feels like home already. "The kindness of Josh (Winterton) and Nigel (Kinch) really attracted me to the club and everyone I've been in contact with has been so welcoming, it feels like home already. The facilities look amazing too and I'm looking forward to getting over there and getting started."

Like many cricketers, away from the rigours of cricket he likes a round of golf and, like many South African's he's also fond of a braai, which is more than a South African BBQ, it's all about the social aspect of gathering together - something that Dewan is very much looking forward to once he touches down in Sileby.

"I'm free at all times to have a chat, whether that's about cricket or anything else. Spending time together off the field is really important to me," he said.

He'll also be imparting his wisdom and experience onto our young cricketers during coaching sessions during the week, which is something he's looking forward to: "One of my aims for the season is to spend lots of time coaching the young players."

Visa in hand, 'Dewie' will be boarding a flight and will become the seventh South African to represent the Vikings - started by the legendary Mike Emslie and most recently Andries Gous.

We can't wait to welcome him to the club and see him performing in maroon and gold.