Former South African U19 coach Lawrence Mahatlane will take up the new role of head coach of the Ugandan national cricket team.

Mahatlane, who spent the last six years in charge of the Proteas youth outfit, will replace former Kenya player Steven Tikolo on a three-year deal.

The tricky task of judging Mahatlane

The 44-year-old had to reapply for the position of U19s head coach as Cricket South Africa opened the door for a new appointment.

But, Mahatlane is looking forward to his new adventure in the hope of developing the game even further in the African country.

‘I am very excited with the opportunity to be a part of the Cricket Cranes family. I look forward to working with Brian [Masaba, captain] and the rest of the team in taking the team forward,’ said Mahatlane.

Similarly, the Ugandan Cricket Association is just as optimistic about the knowledge and experience the South African will bring to its structures.

‘We are very excited to have a coach of such calibre in the set-up,’ UCA CEO Martin Ondeko said.

‘He finds the team on an upward spiral and we believe he will continue with the momentum already gathered. He will also be a very key figure in setting up the structures for the national teams. We wish him the best of luck in his new position.’