Quick read

• John Christian Openshaw officially began his role as CEO of Limpopo Impala Cricket in the beginning of June.
• He brings decades of cricket administration experience, including a previous tenure as CEO of North West Cricket.
• Openshaw plans to strengthen development structures and improve facilities across Limpopo, with hopes of hosting 2027 World Cup warm-up matches.

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POLOKWANE – The recently appointed CEO of Limpopo Impala Cricket (LIC), John Christian Openshaw, officially took up his new role on June 2.

A seasoned cricket administrator with roots in Polokwane, Openshaw brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the sport to the position.

Although he held no formal position within LIC before this appointment, Openshaw played all his senior cricket in Polokwane between 1977 and 1995.

“While playing in Polokwane, I represented the Old Capricorns Cricket Club and also served as chairperson of what was then the Northern Transvaal Country Districts Association,” he recalled.

The association later evolved into Limpopo Impala Cricket following the province’s establishment as an independent cricket board under Cricket South Africa.

Openshaw’s cricket administration journey includes serving as CEO of the North West Cricket Board from 1995 to 2004. Now, he returns to his home province with a renewed vision.

“So far, I’ve been acquainting myself with the staff and structures at LIC headquarters. Our playing squad commenced training on June 17,” he said.

Openshaw believes in building on the foundation laid by his predecessors. “Our shared goal is to grow Limpopo into a cricketing force in South Africa. That requires a strong development pipeline throughout the province, improved infrastructure, and an upgraded provincial stadium that can meet international standards,” he said.

One of LIC’s key ambitions is to play a role in the 2027 Cricket World Cup, with Openshaw hopeful that the province could host warm-up matches for visiting international teams.

Outside the boardroom, Openshaw enjoys reading, watching sport and listening to music.

“I’ve returned to my cricketing roots and hope to leave behind a legacy that elevates Limpopo cricket. It’s about more than just one venue – it’s about developing facilities across the province and forming lasting partnerships to grow the game.”