The provinces have put forward the names of four possible candidates to take over as South African Davis Cup captain, Ian Smith, CEO of the South African Tennis Association (Sata), announced on Wednesday.
The four named to replace outgoing captain Kevin Curren are Michael de Jongh, John-Laffnie de Jager, Pietie Norval and Jeff Coetzee.
”We approached the provinces and other tennis structures to ask them for suggestions, and these were the names that were put forward,” said Smith.
”We will now ask the candidates for their CVs and will bring them in for interviews.”
With regards to the nomination of Coetzee, Smith said the Sata board does not know whether he would be available to take up the job.
”Jeff is still a player but he is reaching the twilight of his career. We will obviously be in contact with him to see if he is interested in the position right now,” said Smith.
One essential condition for Sata is that both the Davis and Fed Cup captains have to be residents in South Africa, which is why someone such as Wayne Ferreira was not considered as a candidate.
The Sata board will meet on August 12 to discuss the candidates, and those who are on the final list will be called in for personal interviews.
The final decision will be taken by the third week of August.
”South Africa’s next tie is against Morocco in late September,” said Smith. ”They have the choice of venue, so we will probably play in Morocco on clay.” — Sapa