Cricket South Africa (CSA) has officially named Mandla Mashimbyi as the permanent head coach of the South Africa women’s cricket team following Hilton Moreeng’s 11 years in charge and Dillon du Preez’s temporary position. Mashimbyi, known for his esteemed reputation in South African cricket, will commence his role during the ODI portion of the current England series.
Moreeng, who took on the role in December 2012, significantly contributed to the team’s evolution into the professional arena. His leadership led to notable accomplishments, such as the team’s back-to-back semi-final appearances in the ODI World Cup in 2017 and 2022, a T20 World Cup semi-final in 2020, and their first final appearance in 2023.
In 2020, Moreeng received a contract extension for three years, which was supposed to last until the conclusion of the 2023 T20 World Cup. However, he remained in position a bit longer as CSA aimed to have him stay until the 2025 World Cup for a smoother transition. Unfortunately, this strategy did not come to fruition, and he encountered considerable dissatisfaction from senior players during his decade-long tenure.
Dillon du Preez, who has since taken up the role of head coach for the United States women’s cricket team, launched South Africa to consecutive T20 World Cup Finals in October 2024 during his short seven-month term—the sole significant event of his coaching stint. His appointment follows South Africa’s defeat in the three-match T20I series against England in the existing home series. Mashimbyi is set to step in as head coach for the upcoming three ODIs and the one-off Test.
At 44 years old, Mandla Mashimbyi brings with him over ten years of coaching expertise on both domestic and international fronts. His background includes positions as assistant and bowling coach for South Africa’s men’s team, coaching the Paarl Royals in South Africa’s top T20 league, and leading the Titans to several championship wins in the domestic arena.
During his playing career from 2003 until 2010, Mashimbyi represented the Titans, Knights, and Griquas, but was forced into early retirement due to recurring knee injuries. As a pacer, he achieved 103 wickets in 39 first-class matches with the Titans and Northerns, and appeared in 44 one-day games. He played a vital role in Northerns’ successes during the three-day and one-day competitions in the 2005/06 season and led the team to victory in the CSA One-Day Challenge in 2009/10.
In response to his appointment, Mandla expressed, “I am fully cognizant of the significant responsibilities and expectations associated with this esteemed position. At this juncture, I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to contribute my expertise and knowledge to the Proteas Women’s continued success and to elevate their standing as a formidable force in world cricket.”
Image Source: Mandla Mashimbyi @ Instagram
