Reeza Hendricks endorses Shukri Conrad for all-format Proteas coaching role

Conrad, who currently serves as the Test head coach, is widely regarded as the leading candidate to succeed Rob Walter in charge of South Africa's white-ball sides. Walter recently stepped down after two years at the helm, during which he led the team through multiple limited-overs series and tournaments.

The 58-year-old Conrad has already made a notable impact, guiding the Proteas to their first ICC World Test Championship final, where they will face Australia at Lord's in June.

Speaking during Cricket South Africa's sponsorship announcement in Johannesburg on Wednesday, Hendricks praised Conrad's leadership and welcomed the idea of a unified coaching structure.

"In recent years we've had separate coaches for red-ball and white-ball cricket, which was a departure from tradition," said Hendricks. "Shukri has done well since taking over the Test team, and if he assumes responsibility for all formats, I think it can only benefit the team. Having a single head coach overseeing all three formats would provide greater continuity."

Hendricks, who worked with Conrad during his tenure as South Africa A coach, added: "We already have a mutual understanding from our time together. He's achieved good results with the Test side, and hopefully he can replicate that success with the white-ball teams, should he be appointed."

Hendricks was not part of the Proteas squad that participated in the recently concluded Champions Trophy in Pakistan, where South Africa's campaign ended in a semi-final defeat to New Zealand.

"Missing out was disappointing," Hendricks admitted. "But I hadn't been selected for the two series leading up to it, so I had an idea that I might not go. It still hurts, of courseâ”I would've loved to be part of that teamâ”but that's how things unfold in cricket."

Looking ahead, the top-order batter remains committed to earning his place back in the squad.

"My focus now is to return to domestic cricket, put in strong performances, and give myself the best chance of being considered again. As long as I'm playing 50-over cricket, I'll continue striving to return to the national setup," he said.

"With a new coach coming in, there will likely be fresh plans and perhaps a new vision. I need to control what I can and ensure I'm in the best position to be selected, whoever the new coach may be."

Also announced on Wednesday was a significant commercial development for South African cricket - a three-year sponsorship agreement with global automobile manufacturer Suzuki. The company will serve as the title sponsor for both the men's and women's ODI teams.

Hendricks welcomed the announcement as a sign of positive momentum for South African cricket.

"There's been negativity around the Proteas brand at times, but recent years have seen real progress," he said. "Both the men's and women's teams have reached finals and shown strong performances. The Suzuki partnership is a clear indication that things are moving in the right direction."

He concluded, "Suzuki is a well-respected global brand, and their association with South African cricket is a major boost."

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