In a momentous development for South African cricket, the illustrious former national team batsman, Hashim Amla, has been appointed as the batting coach of the Johannesburg-based Lions for an exciting three-year term. Amla’s new role marks a significant step in his coaching journey, as he steps into a pivotal position with a provincial team in South Africa. Joining forces with former South Africa coach Russell Domingo at the renowned Wanderers stadium, Amla replaces the esteemed JP Duminy, who has taken on responsibilities in the national men’s white-ball coaching setup. Domingo, now at the helm of the Lions, succeeds Wandile Gwavu, assuming the role of South African men’s white-ball fielding coach.
Hashim Amla’s entry into the coaching realm began with remarkable success as a batting consultant for MI Cape Town in the SA20 tournament, followed by a similar role with the Cape Town Blitz in the now-defunct Mzansi Super League. However, his latest appointment with the Lions marks his first full-time coaching venture with a provincial team in South Africa. Notably, this new chapter in his cricketing journey coincides with the same year he graciously bid farewell to professional cricket. While Amla did grace the field for two matches with the World Giants in the Masters Legends League earlier this year, he has since decided to retire from all other forms of the game.
Exuding enthusiasm and gratitude for the esteemed opportunity, Hashim Amla expressed, “I am truly delighted to work with Lions Cricket. They are one of the largest Protea producing teams in the country, and to work with their players is an honor. The head coach Russel Domingo and I go back many years: I had him as a coach while with the Proteas, and his experience as an international coach is something I am eager to team up with and share in.”
Hashim Amla’s tenure as batting coach commenced promptly, with South Africa’s domestic teams engaging in pre-season training. Although the precise fixtures for the 2023-24 season are yet to be announced, it is anticipated that all eight division one teams will partake in seven first-class games, along with the eagerly-awaited fifty-over one-day cup and an exhilarating T20 competition. As one of South Africa’s most successful franchises, the Lions have savored the glory of securing five titles in the last four seasons. With Hashim Amla’s expertise now enriching their coaching staff, the prospects for further success and player development appear exceptionally promising.
Being an eminent cricketing maestro and an inspiration to countless young cricketers, Hashim Amla’s presence as a batting coach is eagerly anticipated to have a profound impact on the players under his esteemed guidance. With his exceptional knowledge, wealth of experience, and unparalleled skill, Amla’s role is poised to contribute significantly to the development and honing of batting talent within the Lions squad. Furthermore, his strategic mentorship and valuable insights are bound to bolster the team’s cohesion and performance in domestic competitions. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the commencement of the upcoming season, the excitement surrounding Hashim Amla’s new coaching endeavor grows, with hopes that his profound influence will further elevate the standards of South African cricket and secure future victories for the Lions. With the legendary Amla now at the helm, the Lions’ den is destined for greatness.
