Lawrence Mahatlane unveiled as Cricket Cranes coach

Uganda Cricket Association has finally unveiled South Africa coach Lawrence Mahatlane as the new Cricket Cranes coach.

The 43-year-old signed a three-year renewable contract and will take the helm from interim coach Davis Turinawe who has held the fort since Steve Tikolo left last year. It's been a nail-biting six months as the South African could not come to Uganda due to the lockdown restrictions.

"It's been an interesting journey on my side, the process started in January. With COVID coming and other interests but just the passion with which Mr Ondeko (UCA CEO) spoke made sure that I signed on the dotted line," Mahatlane said.

Although Mahatlane's immediate role is the senior national cricket team, the scope of his work will see him delve into the youth national teams and the women's team as well.

"I'm excited by the challenge thrown to me by the Uganda Cricket Association. It's not only about vision 2022 which is focused on the senior men's team, it's a wider vision. It's also making sure that also our Lady Cranes also do well, making sure that also our girls grow. Making sure that every young person in this country is able to access this sport," he emphasised.

The jury is out on how well Mahatlane will acclimatise to his new job and charges but he has every intention to see to it that the Cricket Cranes reach their full potential in the next three years hopefully also gaining ODI status.

"I hope that I will be part of a country that goes out to achieve great things. We have seen Afghanistan do it, we've seen Ireland do it and nothing can stop us from achieving such things," he concluded.

The coach intends to learn while on the job he has a keen interest to immerse himself in Ugandan culture as he seeks to build a team that can challenge on many fronts.

He has served as the Highveld Lions assistant coach and the South Africa U19 head coach before he was hired by Uganda Cricket Association.