There is no end to the list of accolades deservedly coming the way of Shaun Pollock, one of Cricket South Africa's favourite sons.
On Thursday morning he was named to the prestigious and influential MCC World Cricket Committee, a body that safeguards the values of the game and includes the likes of Geoff Boycott, Barry Richards, Steve Waugh and Courtney Walsh.
And on Thursday evening he was named the most media friendly sports personality at the annual SAB sportswriters' award function in Johannesburg.
Because of his involvement in the Indian Premier League as captain of the Mumbai Indians, Pollock was not able to accept the award in person — the award was accepted by his cousin, Anthony Pollock — but he was quite overwhelmed when informed of the tribute.
"Gee... now that's a nice surprise...
"I'm at a loss for words. All I can say is that I when I think back on my career, the spectators and media contributed hugely to the wonderful experience of being an international sportsman. I always enjoyed interacting with the personalities involved in the media and got to know most of them pretty well. I would like to thank them sincerely for the kind gesture of giving me this award."
CEO Gerald Majola led the tributes from Cricket South Africa.
Majola commented: "Shaun Pollock has been one of cricket's greatest role models and has a wonderful way with the media and the public. This makes him a most apt recipient of this prestigious SAB Sports Award and is another indication of the positive impact he has made on the game.
"We would like to thank SAB for recognizing one of cricket's finest sons in this way, and also for the meaningful support SAB has given South African cricket down the years through its premier brand, Castle Lager."
Proteas coach Mickey Arthur was equally fulsome in his praise. "It is typical of the guy. He has always been very professional both on and off the field and he fully deserves to be honoured in this way. The entire Proteas squad is extremely proud of him."
Sapa