Mark Boucher named head coach of South Africa cricket team

Former Test wicketkeeper Mark Boucher has been appointed South Africa’s new head coach until 2023.

Boucher, who is 43, will replace Enoch Nkwew, who filled in as team director following Ottis Gibson’s release in August and who will now act as assistant coach. Boucher’s contract runs until the end of the next World Cup in 2023.

Boucher’s tenure will commence with a four-match Test series against England, starting on 26th December in Centurion.

During his career, he played 147 Tests and 295 one-day internationals, before retiring in 2012 due to an eye injury. 

The appointment comes after former Test captain Graeme Smith was named acting director of cricket three days ago. He will remain in charge until the Indian Premier League starts in March. 

Speaking on Boucher’s appointment, Smith commented that “With his experience of a long career as an international cricketer, he has first-hand experience of what it takes to succeed in the Test arena”. 

Cricket South Africa is currently experiencing a period of difficulty, after chief executive Thabang Moore was suspended for allegations of misconduct. 

As it stands, Volvo Masubelele will stay on as team manager and Justin Ontong as fielding coach. Smith said he is set to announce new batting and bowling coaches in the new few days. 

Photo credit: BBC News