CSA congratulates McKenzie and Boucher

"Wisden is the bible of cricket,” commented CSA CEO Gerald Majola, “and to be named among its players of the 2008 season is indeed a singular honour and very well-deserved by Mark Boucher and Neil McKenzie.

"They were among the stalwarts of a memorable and historic summer in England when the Castle Proteas won a Test series for the first time since the unification of South African cricket.

"Mark Boucher has become a wicketkeeping legend and this is another extraordinary feather in his cap. For Neil McKenzie, this is something to treasure for a cricketer who is respected and well-liked wherever cricket is played.

"CSA is most grateful to them for their services to cricket, and to Wisden for giving them this wonderful place in cricketing history".
Boucher said he felt honoured to receive the award. “It is not the reason why I play cricket but it is wonderful to receive this honour from a publication that is and has always been highly respected by cricketers around the world.

“I am particularly pleased for Neil McKenzie. I don't think he always gets the credit he deserves for his contribution to our successes over the past 12 months.”

"It's lovely to get the accolade and to be a part of Wisden is a great honour,” commented McKenzie. “2008 was a memorable year for me to get back into the national side and make a contribution to our successes in Bangladesh, India, England and Australia.

“This makes me more determined than ever to put the runs on the board to get back into the national side,” he added.