Eric Simons was a stalwart of Western Province, whose claims for international recognition were overlooked until he was surprisingly called up in 1994 at the age of 32. He was a genuine allrounder - he bowled fast-medium, although he slowed to a more controlled medium in later year, and was a powerful middle-order thumper. In the next two years he played 23 ODIs, where he bowled with success but he disappointed as a batsman. After retiring, he became Western Province's coach and in September 2002 he was appointed as national coach. His tenure lasted two years until he stepped down in October 2004 amid a poor run of form for the national side.
Wisden Cricinfo staff (October 2004)
