Lions ‘immensely proud’ to appoint Russell Domingo head coach

Russell Domingo LionsRussell Domingo.

Former Proteas head coach Russell Domingo has been appointed Lions head coach ahead of South Africa’s 2023-24 domestic season.

Domingo has succeeded former Lions head coach Wandile Gwavu, who has joined the Proteas’ support staff.

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“I am truly honoured to be part of the hugely professional and successful set-up,” said Domingo.

“I absolutely cannot wait to get started, meet the players and entrench myself among this passionate family.

“I am thrilled to be back in the South African cricketing landscape and know that I’ll feel at home.”

Lions assistant coach Jimmy Kgamadi and batting coach Michael Smith have been retained.

What the Lions want from Domingo

Domingo was Proteas head coach from 2013 to 2017. He was Bangladesh head coach from 2019 to 2022. This year, Domingo worked with Netherlands as well.

He has signed a three-year contract with the Lions. His tenure will start on 1 July 2023.

“We are immensely proud to have Russell on board. He is a man that will wholeheartedly embrace and drive our Lions’ way in all that we do,” added Lions chief executive officer Jono Leaf-Wright.

“He will drive our vision. he will embrace our culture and undoubtedly ensure the Lion roars louder and prouder.

“In conversations with him he is equally motivated to get involved with our powerful pipeline and add value to the feeder system of the professional side.

“He is calm, knowledgeable and holds the game and those that play it close to his heart. I look forward to many successful seasons ahead with Russell.”

The Lions compete in division one of South African domestic cricket.

They have recruited several players ahead of the 2023-24 season, including former Western Province trio Zubayr Hamza, Tshepo Moreki and Junaid Dawood.

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