Legendary cricketer Eric Petersen dies

Published Aug 30, 2002

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All-round sportsman Eric Petersen, one of 10 finalists in a South African cricketer of the century competition two years ago, has died in a car accident near Macassar in the Western Cape.

His son Cedric was injured in Monday's crash.

Petersen, 70, was a bowler whose pace could vary from vicious to gentle as he changed from fast bowler to off-spinner during the course of an innings.

With black cricketers denied the chance to represent their country, Petersen's only touring experience came when a black South African team visited Kenya in the 1958/59 season, captained by Basil D'Oliveira.

On the tour Petersen took 21 wickets at an average of 8.33 in three international matches.

He represented Western Province several times. He also excelled as a lock for the Temperance and Perseverance rugby clubs, and the City and Suburban union, in the 1950s.

- Batsman Graeme Pollock was named South African cricketer of the 20th century. - Own correspondent

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