New Zealand legend Richard Hadlee said it was sad that Clive Rice, who died of cancer on Tuesday aged 66, never had the chance to play Test cricket because South Africa's apartheid ban coincided with his prime playing years.

Clive Rice was named Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1981. He scored 26,331 first-class runs in 482 matches, including a highest score of 246. International Cricket Council said he was a giant of the game.

Like many of the best South African players of his era, Clive Rice was limited to a career of South African and England domestic cricket

Clive Rice, the former South African captain, passed away on Tuesday after losing a battle to brain tumour.

Paceman Fanie de Villiers, who played for both the Springboks in the old era and the Proteas, said the CSA decision was not well-considered. Graeme Pollock described the CSA decision as ridiculous and heartbreaking.

Former South African paceman Fanie de Villiers feels that either Hashim Amla or AB de Villiers should succeed Graeme Smith as the national cricket team's captain.

Kevin Pietersen's attitude towards county cricket is threatening his international place, according Clive Rice who helped him start his career.