Reddy for challenge of a top coaching job
A DECADE after calling time on his professional playing career, Desigan Reddy has been elevated to one of Kwazulu-natal’s top coaching jobs.
The 37-year-old has been appointed coaching manager of the Kwazulunatal Cricket Union (KZNCU) with immediate effect, replacing Yashin Ebrahim at the helm.
“I am grateful I have been given a position where I can get involved and perhaps do things a little differently,” he said.
Reddy, who played five first-class games for KZN, has risen through the ranks swiftly. Over the years he has coached at grassroots level all the way up to the province’s amateur side alongside former Proteas bowler Roger Telemachus.
“This is certainly the highlight of my coaching career so far,” he beamed.
Reddy, who grew up in Chatsworth, is familiar with the responsibilities of his new role, having worked at the KZN Inland Cricket Union over the past year.
It is a position which will see him mentor amateur coaches around the province, ensuring they are up to speed with the game’s latest trends and practices.
“There are areas where I feel we were being held back,” he said. “Changing the mindset of people is one of my main aims, and with the coaches we have, we are going to be able to move the union and the Hollywoodbets Dolphins forward.”
The Level Three Cricket South Africa coach has begun work at Kingsmead already, and with the season about to get under way, foresees a busy few months ahead.
“For many years I was a working colleague with a lot of these coaches. I want to revive and instil the passion to grow people,” he said.
“There is great potential to make the product a lot better. I will be running Level One and Two courses, hosting coaching forums across the province.”
He said he would also work closely with franchise coach Grant Morgan, Roger Telemachus and newly appointed Dolphins Academy coach Mdudusi Mbatha.
“It is always valuable to have experienced coaches to work with.”