Cricket Boland mourns the death of Godfrey “Gotta” Stevens
CRICKET Boland is in mourning following the death of its former captain and SA u/19 all-rounder, Godfrey “Gotta” Stevens.
Stevens (35) died on Monday after a short illness. At the time of his death he was employed by Cricket Boland as a coaching assistant with the union’s professional team, Gbets Rocks.
He was part of the SA u/19 team who competed at the 2004 World Cup in Bangladesh.
Stevens, was a left-handed batsman and left-arm orthodox spin bowler. He played 99 (50 First class, 43 List A and 6 T20) matches for Boland. He was part of the team who won the CSA One Day Cup at Boland Park during the 2008-2009 season.
He is described by his peers as an outstanding all-rounder, dedicated and a loyal employee who went out of his way to accommodate his colleagues.
Salieg Nackerdien, batting lead coach of Gbets Rocks, on Tuesday paid a moving tribute to “Gotta” as he was affectionately known at a ceremony held at the indoor nets at Eurolux Boland Park, attended by coaches, players and Cricket Boland’s CEO, James Fortuin.
Nackerdien, who was instrumental in getting Stevens to be part of The Rocks coaching team, said.
“I suggested Godfrey be added to our coaching team. I believed he could add immense value at practices with his left arm spin as it would also enhance his coaching skills working with senior contracted players.
“To his wife and children we know it’s not easy. May God give you the strength to carry on in life and ease your pain through patience and Prayers.
“Gotta will surely be missed by his family and his colleagues.
“Just a reminder for us human beings. Don’t take this life for granted. We are here today and gone tomorrow. This is real and many of us can attest to this. We see it happen to our loved ones and close friends. We never know when our time will be up.
“So forgive, spread goodness and pray that the Almighty takes us when he is most pleased with us.
“May the Almighty forgive us for all our shortcomings and guide us towards good and keep us away from Evil.”
