Cricket South Africa (CSA) has named seasoned selector Patrick Moroney as the new convenor of selectors for the men’s national team. He will officially begin his duties on August 1, 2025. His first task includes overseeing squad selection for South Africa’s white-ball tour of Australia, starting on August 10.
Moroney has played a key role in South African cricket for over two decades. His involvement began in 2001. He has worked across many levels of the game. These include the National Academy, emerging teams, and most recently, the Under-19 men’s side. As U-19 convenor, he selected standout players like Kwena Maphaka and Lhuan-dre Pretorius for the 2024 U-19 World Cup.
Back in the Senior Set-Up After Missing 2019 Role
In 2019, Moroney competed for the convenor of selectors role. Victor Mpitsang won the job, but Moroney remained involved. He served on the selection panel alongside Mpitsang. Now, he returns in a lead role to shape the future of South African cricket.
Enoch Nkwe, CSA’s Director of National Teams and High Performance, praised Moroney’s appointment. “His deep understanding of the game and years of experience make him ideal for this job,” Nkwe stated.
A Return to Shared Selection Duties
This move signals a change in CSA’s approach. Since Shukri Conrad became Test coach in January 2023, the selection panel was removed. Coaches alone picked squads—Conrad for Tests, and Rob Walter for white-ball formats.
Recently, CSA’s board insisted on reinstating a convenor. They wanted to support coaches, especially after Conrad received the all-format coaching role.
Nkwe explained this shift: “We need more eyes on the ground. Coaches must focus on performance.”
Conrad welcomed this change. He said he hoped to work with a like-minded partner who has South African cricket’s best interest at heart.
Looking Back and Ahead
Previously, Moroney worked with Mpitsang during Mark Boucher’s tenure as head coach. That panel made some bold and controversial calls. One notable pick was Marco Jansen, now a key figure in all formats.
However, their decision to change a winning XI in England 2022 drew criticism. After winning the first Test at Lord’s, they picked a spinner on a seamer-friendly pitch in Old Trafford. This forced South Africa to bat first on a tough surface, leading to a series loss.
Now, Moroney’s return aims to bring strategic consistency and stronger talent identification. He also faces pressure to ensure team diversity, following criticism after the 2024 T20 World Cup squad included only one black African player.
With a big tour just days away, Moroney steps into his role with a fresh mandate. He will play a key part in shaping the Proteas’ future.
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