Salieg Nackerdien Farewell: WPCA Coach Joins Tanzania National Team

WPCA Bids Farewell to Salieg Nackerdien as He Embarks on Tanzanian Coaching Journey

Summary
Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) has officially said goodbye to Salieg Nackerdien, who has stepped down as the head coach of WSB Western Province Men’s team after four impactful seasons. Nackerdien leaves a legacy of consistency, national player development, and trophy success, including a One Day Cup title. He now begins a new chapter as Head Coach of the Tanzanian national team, reuniting with his family and embracing an exciting international role.

Short Scorecard of Achievements Under Salieg Nackerdien:

• 2023/24 CSA One Day Cup Champions

• 2023/24 CSA 4-Day Series Runners-Up

• 2022/23 One Day Cup Finalists

• 57% Win Rate in 2023/24 Season

• 8 Players Earned National Call-Ups

Salieg Nackerdien Steps Down as WPCA Head Coach, Heads to Tanzania for New Challenge

The Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) has bid an emotional farewell to head coach Salieg Nackerdien following the conclusion of the 2024/25 domestic season. A revered figure at Newlands and a key architect behind the team’s recent resurgence, Nackerdien departs with a rich legacy, heading to Tanzania where he will assume the role of national head coach.

Though farewells in sport are often bittersweet, this one comes with deep respect and admiration. Over the past four years, Nackerdien has transformed WSB Western Province from a rebuilding side into a championship contender. The 2023/24 season stands as a testament to that evolution a CSA One Day Cup title, a runners-up finish in the CSA 4-Day Series, and a team culture that fostered both results and player development.

Legacy Etched in Silverware and Player Development

Under Nackerdien’s calm leadership, Western Province saw a dramatic uplift in on-field performance. The 2023/24 campaign closed with a 57% win rate, a considerable leap from the seasons prior to his appointment. His impact extended beyond the boundary rope eight squad members earned national call-ups during his tenure, with five going on to make international debuts.

Pace spearhead Nandre Burger became a mainstay for South Africa across all three formats during the 2024 India tour. Simultaneously, batters like David Bedingham, Tony De Zorzi, and Eddie Moore finally cracked the Test XI, while the versatile Mihlali Mpongwana earned white-ball recognition. For veterans like Kyle Verreynne and Beuran Hendricks, the Nackerdien era marked a return to the national fold, underscoring his ability to rejuvenate careers.

A Full-Circle Moment: From Cobras to Head Coach

Nackerdien’s coaching journey with Western Province is layered with history. His first stint began in 2007/08 as assistant coach of the Cape Cobras, before ascending to lead the semi-professional Western Province side between 2009 and 2011. His 2012 season where he led the team to both 3-Day and One Day Provincial trophies marked the rise of players like Yaseen Vallie, Dane Paterson, and Beuran Hendricks, who would later become core figures of the Province setup.

When Nackerdien returned in 2021 to head the senior men's side, it wasn’t just a reunion it was a chance to complete what he started. And by every metric, he delivered.

The Human Touch Behind the Numbers

It’s not just the trophies or player progress that defines Nackerdien’s influence. WPCA CEO Corrie van Zyl described him as a coach with “the special touch” a mentor who creates environments of psychological safety where players thrive. “Replacing Salieg will not be easy as his skill in managing people is rare,” van Zyl said.

The emotional weight of this departure was also felt by Nackerdien himself. Reflecting on his journey, he thanked the “supporters, the media, the Board, the CEO, our staff, and our ground staff,” adding that he was grateful for the opportunity to impact the province positively. He also acknowledged the significance of leaving Newlands, his coaching home for 15 years.

Tanzania Calling: A New Chapter, A Family-Centric Decision

The move to Tanzania isn’t just a professional pivot it’s a personal one. For Nackerdien, this opportunity offers a rare balance: continuing his coaching journey while also being closer to family. The role with the Tanzanian national side aligns with his coaching ambitions and personal priorities, and WPCA has offered full support.

With cricket growing rapidly in East Africa, Tanzania stands to gain enormously from a seasoned tactician like Nackerdien. His wealth of experience, calm leadership, and proven ability to develop talent make him an ideal fit for a team looking to rise through the ranks of international cricket.

What’s Next for WPCA?

The search for Nackerdien’s successor begins immediately. WPCA has confirmed that the Head Coach position for the WSB Western Province Senior Men’s team will be advertised shortly. While no timeline has been announced for a replacement, expectations will undoubtedly be high not just to maintain recent success but to build on it.