South Africa’s cricket landscape is entering a new era as Shukri Conrad, the respected Test coach, has been appointed to lead the Proteas’ white-ball teams. This decision by Cricket South Africa (CSA) signals both a strategic shift and a vote of confidence in Conrad’s vision, as he now assumes responsibility for all three formats until the 2027 ODI World Cup on home soil.
A New Chapter: From Test Specialist to All-Format Leader
Conrad, 58, steps into the white-ball coaching role following Rob Walter’s resignation in April. Having steered the Test side since January 2023, Conrad’s expanded mandate ends South Africa’s recent experiment with split coaching roles and brings a unified approach to the national team.
Key details of Conrad’s appointment:
- Conrad will oversee both ODI and T20I squads, in addition to his Test responsibilities.
- His tenure runs through the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which South Africa will host.
- The Proteas’ first white-ball assignment under Conrad will be a T20I tri-series against Zimbabwe and New Zealand in July 2025.
Collaboration and Selection: A New Structure
Unlike previous setups where the head coach had full control over selection, Conrad will now work alongside a soon-to-be-announced convener of selectors. This collaborative approach aims to harness a broader range of expertise and ensure balanced team selection.
CSA has already closed applications for the selection convener position and is expected to announce the appointment soon.
The move is part of a broader effort to revitalize South Africa’s cricket structure and maintain competitive consistency across all formats.
Conrad’s Vision: Building a World-Class White-Ball Team
Conrad brings a wealth of experience and optimism to his new role. He has expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to guide the Proteas across formats, emphasizing his commitment to building on South Africa’s white-ball strengths.
“South African cricket has incredible white-ball talent, from the calibre of our senior players to the emerging group of juniors aspiring to represent the Proteas. There’s a strong foundation to build on, and I believe we have what it takes to achieve something special,” Conrad said.
His goals are clear:
- Foster a unified team identity across formats.
- Develop and integrate young talent alongside established stars.
- Achieve world-class standards in both ODIs and T20Is, with an eye on major ICC tournaments.
Track Record: Conrad’s Coaching Journey
Conrad’s coaching career is marked by both resilience and results. After a modest playing career as an all-rounder, he made his mark coaching domestic teams like the Cape Cobras and Highveld Lions, leading them to multiple titles. He also briefly coached Uganda’s national team and headed CSA’s National Academy before taking the Proteas Test reins in 2023.
Career highlights:
- Guided South Africa to a crucial series win against England, securing qualification for the 2023 ODI World Cup.
- Built a strong, disciplined Test squad with a distinct identity.
- Known for nurturing young talent and fostering team unity.
What’s Next for South African Cricket?
With Conrad at the helm, the Proteas face a packed schedule, including:
- The ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia in June 2025.
- The T20 World Cup in 2026.
- The 2027 ODI World Cup on home soil.
Conrad’s leadership is expected to bring stability, fresh ideas, and a renewed sense of purpose as South Africa aims to become the best in the world across all formats.
FAQs: Shukri Conrad as South Africa’s White-Ball Coach
1. Who is Shukri Conrad?
Shukri Conrad is a South African cricket coach and former first-class player, previously head coach of the Proteas Test team and now the all-format head coach.
2. Why did South Africa end the split coaching structure?
CSA opted for a unified coaching approach to ensure consistency, stronger team identity, and better resource management across all formats.
3. What are Conrad’s main goals as white-ball coach?
Conrad aims to build on South Africa’s white-ball talent, integrate emerging players, and achieve world-class results in ODIs and T20Is, especially with the 2027 World Cup in sight.
4. Who will help Conrad with team selection?
Conrad will work with a new convener of selectors, whose appointment will be announced soon, to ensure balanced and strategic team selections.
5. When will Conrad’s first white-ball series as coach take place?
His first assignment as white-ball coach will be the T20I tri-series against Zimbabwe and New Zealand in July 2025.
Conclusion
Shukri Conrad’s appointment as South Africa’s white-ball coach marks a bold step towards unity and renewed ambition for the Proteas. With his proven track record, deep understanding of South African cricket, and a clear vision for the future, Conrad is poised to lead the national team into an exciting new era. As the countdown to the 2027 ODI World Cup begins, fans can look forward to a Proteas side striving for excellence across all formats.