Steve Elworthy opts not to sign with Northerns

Northerns Cricket Union hereby wishes to inform all stakeholders and supporters that Steve Elworthy has opted not to sign a contract at the Nashua Titans for the coming 2003/2004 cricket season.

After many months of negotiation and discussion, Steve Elworthy has initially decided to look for full time employment - should this however not come to fruition before the season starts he will take up a very lucrative offer from another province within the system - to play out his last season of his illustrious career.

Steve leaves the Nashua Titans as being the province's highest capped first class player and highest first class wicket-taker in the Union's history. The parting of ways between Steve and the Titans is a very amicable and understanding one for all parties concerned, as well as being one in which the Union will in due course pay tribute to Steve at a formal function.

Nashua Titans Coach Dave Nosworthy had this to say : " Steve has over the years been a real stalwart for the Titans, and will be really missed on and off the field by not only myself but also by his fellow team-mates. Steve has been a top performer for us and in my books should have played many more times for his country! Shotsie leaves the Union as my long time friend and in a very amicable manner - and I have no doubt that our friendship will continue with him well into the future. To Steve, all of the best with your plans for the future - and remember that what lies behind and before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us. Good luck with all of your future endeavours!"

Northerns Cricket Union's President : Brandon Foot expresses his gratitude to Steve Elworthy for his yeoman services to Northerns over a sustained period. He mentioned that Northerns Cricket Union was again willing to offer Steve what is a very competitive package to remain with the Titans, but was unable to match the offer made to Steve, which in his view was not market-related. "It would be selfish to attempt to stand in Steve's way and prevent him from earning a substantial windfall to the benefit of his young family in the twilight of his career."

Northerns Cricket Union's CEO Elise Lombard had this to say : "We are very sad to say farewell to Steve Elworthy. Steve has been a brilliant ambassador for Northerns Cricket Union throughout his career but we are mindful of the realities facing him in the final stages of his cricketing career. We wish him the very best for his future."

Steve Elworthy had this to say : ""It is a very emotional day for me as after fourteen odd years at Northerns Cricket and with the Titans, I have made many close bonds with many wonderful people. The Unions support and backing from all sides has been truly unbelievable, with just so many people to thank. Special mention and thanks though go to Brandon Foot, Elise Lombard, Dave Nosworthy and all the Titans support staff and players for their efforts and guidance in assisting me to play international cricket for South Africa. Life has many twists and turns as ones priority's change - and it is now at a time like this that I have to look forward for different roads to venture down. Once again many thanks to all Titan supporters and stakeholders - and know that Northerns and the Titans will always remain a part of me!"