Former Proteas cricketer Ontong named Boland Rocks head coach

Former Proteas cricketer Justin Ontong was on Wednesday named as new head coach of the Boland Rocks.

The former Boland and Cape Cobras captain was the Proteas' fielding coach from 2017 until 2023.

"Having Justin Ontong on board as the head coach of the Rocks is an immense addition to our organisation. We believe his tactical prowess and leadership skills will bring a renewed energy to the team. With Ontong's guidance and the Rocks players' dedication, we are confident that we will achieve our goals," James Fortuin, CEO of Cricket Boland, said in a statement.

Ontong replaces former Proteas star JP Duminy as Rocks head coach.

Cricket Boland is pleased to announce the appointment of Justin Ontong as the new head coach of the GbetsRocks.#GbetRocks pic.twitter.com/nr80ouHuGE

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Ontong, 43, played two Tests, 28 ODIs and 14 T20Is for the Proteas.

Godwin von Willingh, president of Cricket Boland, added: "The appointment of Justin Ontong as the Rocks head coach is a clear indication of our desire to root the Rocks in our local community while recognising our role in a global and globalising cricket world.’"

Ontong said he was "honoured" to be named Boland coach.

"I have worked with several different teams and understand what it takes to build a winning team. My focus will be to ensure that all the players are working towards the same goal and remain motivated. I am excited about the prospects of this new journey with the Rocks, and I look forward to working with the team and fans."