Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Friday announced the departure of long-serving Proteas women's coach Hilton Moreeng.
During his more than 11-year tenure, Moreeng expertly oversaw the evolution of the South African women's side into a fledgling professional set-up, taking charge of 279 matches across all three formats.
Moreeng has been at the helm of the Proteas women's side since 2013 and at the heart of the team's success over the last decade. The 46-year-old's contract was extended until the conclusion of the 2023/24 season, which ended with a disappointed 2-1 T20I series home defeat and 1-1 ODI draw against Sri Lanka.Under his guidance, the Proteas women achieved significant success, winning 84 out of 149 One-Day International (ODI) matches, with a win ratio of 56%. In T20 Internationals, the team secured 60 victories out of 127 encounters, with one draw and two losses in Test cricket.
He became the first coach to guide a senior South African cricket side to an ICC World Cup final last year, where the SA women fell 19 runs short at a sold-out Newlands against champions Australia.
'Coaching at the international level has been an extraordinary journey filled with countless memorable moments and achievements. These experiences will forever hold a special place in my heart,' said Moreeng in a statement.'I want to express my sincere appreciation to all the players and team management who have been instrumental in this journey. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside each of you.
'I would also like to thank the South African fans and the media for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Your encouragement has been a constant source of motivation.
'Last but certainly not least, I am deeply grateful to my family and friends who have stood by me through the highs and lows along the way. Your love and support have been my rock.
As I step away from this role, I want to wish the team and everyone involved the very best of luck in the future. I have no doubt that the future holds great success and prosperity for all.'
Assistant coach Dillon du Preez will take over the reins in the interim before a new head coach is appointed.The Proteas will only be in action in late September for the Women's T20 World Cup set to be held in Bangladesh (3-20 October).
READ | Proteas set to kick off Women's T20 World Cup against England in Bangladesh
Laura Wolvaardt's charges are drawn in Group B alongside the hosts Bangladesh, England, West Indies and Scotland, with their campaign starting against England on 3 October in Dhaka.
The Proteas women will be in action at home in November when they host England in an all-format tour.
