Mandla Mashimbyi, the former Free State and Knights fast bowler, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Proteas Women’s team. He succeeds Dillon du Preez, the former Knights allrounder, who has served as interim head coach since Hilton Moreeng's departure earlier this year.

During his interim tenure, Du Preez led the Proteas to the T20 World Cup final against New Zealand in the United Arab Emirates. Currently, the Proteas are engaged in a T20 International series against England, which forms part of the ongoing multi-format tour.

It remains unclear whether Du Preez will stay on with the Proteas Women as the bowling coach.

Until recently, Mashimbyi was the head coach of the Titans, where he achieved considerable success with the Sky Blues. Speaking about his new role, Mashimbyi expressed his gratitude and excitement:

“It is with a profound sense of honour and humility that I accept the appointment as the Proteas Women's Coach. I fully understand the significant responsibilities and expectations associated with this esteemed position.

“I am deeply grateful for the exceptional opportunities provided by Titans Cricket during my coaching tenure. Their unwavering support over the past eleven years has been instrumental in my professional growth and development.

“At this juncture, I am honored to contribute my expertise to the Proteas Women’s continued success and to elevate their standing as a formidable force in world cricket.”

The Proteas Women will face England on Saturday at SuperSport Park in the third and final T20 International of the series.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport