The United Cricket Board (UCB) has expressed its sincere condolences to South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis and his sister Janine on the death of their father Henry (65), who passed away early on Wednesday.
”This is a terribly sad and difficult time for both Jacques and Janine, who have suffered along with their father for some time,” said UCB CEO Gerald Majola.
”Jacques has always named his dad as his biggest influence and mentor and Henry gave his everything to support both his children. Our thoughts are with them,” he added.
Kallis senior was diagnosed with lung cancer in March and Jacques had come back to South Africa following the Natwest Series final in England to be with him.
Kallis’s South African teammates, currently in Birmingham preparing for the first Test against England, received the news with deep sadness.
South African captain Graeme Smith said their thoughts and sympathies are with Jacques and Janine at this time.
”Many of us knew Henry; he was a real gentleman, and a wonderful inspiration and role model for Jacques. There was always a strong bond between Jakes and his dad and I know the whole team with be thinking of him through this desperately sad time.”
Kallis returned to South Africa after the limited-overs series 11 days ago to spend time with his ailing father. The South African team management has confirmed that Kallis will rejoin the team in the UK whenever he feels he is ready.
Coach Eric Simons, who was a teammate of Kallis at Western Province before turning to coaching said: ”This is a desperately sad time for Jacques and we want him to take as much time as he needs to deal with it.
”Henry played a tremendously influential role in Jacques and Janine’s life. He was immensely proud of Jacque’s achievements both on and off the field. The two of them had a very special relationship and I’m sure Jacques will have many wonderful memories of his dad.”
Former cricket boss Ali Bacher said he had ”spoken to Henry on many occasions and he was really so proud of his son’s achievements”.
Bacher said Jacque had a strong and close relationship with his father.
”On behalf of all South African cricket supporters we extend our condolences to Jacque and his sister,” Bacher said.
In their response the Democratic Alliance (DA) said it was saddened to learn of the death of Henry Kallis.
”On behalf of the DA, I would like to offer our condolences to the entire Kallis family and assure them that they are in our prayers during this difficult time,” DA spokesperson on sport and recreation Donald Lee said. – Sapa