Namibian Viljoen misses out on first class chance

Christi Viljoen Photo/File

Wanganui cricket import Christi Viljoen was not able to secure a start with a major cricket association team before the end of the Plunket Shield competition.

Active Physio Wanganui coach Rod Bannister, who is representing the Namibian international through the new Cricket Nation company, admits it is now a "long shot" that Viljoen will still represent this region in the Chapple Cup tournament at the start of the 2015-16 season.

Viljoen got a look-in with the Otago Volts team a fortnight ago after they had a run of injuries, but ultimately was not added to their lineup to play Northern Districts.

He then visited the Wellington Firebirds and met the coaching staff at the Basin Reserve for a "job interview", Bannister said.

"Due to the late timing in the season, these first class teams [wanted] to give their entire selected playing squads every opportunity to perform.

"Having to get official clearance from NZ Cricket and the players association, it was always a wide stretch that he would get a game this season."

"While being frustrated by not getting an opportunity late in the season, Viljoen realises that the associations have a process that they have to follow."

The bowling-allrounder has been interviewed by three associations now regarding plans for 2015-16, and Bannister said he is confident the 27-year-old will secure a contract.

"He has a preference to where he wants to be based, however he will look at what offers come across the table over the next few months and go from there.

"[I'm] hopeful to have him back in Wanganui ... that's a long shot if he is based outside of the Central Districts region.

"So there are plans in place to have two other pros in the city next season, adding strength to the premier club scene as well as the senior men's rep side."

Viljoen will visit family in South Africa before fulfilling the fourth year of his contract with the Blackpool club in Lancashire, competing in the Northern League competition.