Exclusive: Enoch Nkwe on Rob Walter’s Resignation and the Future of Cricket South Africa

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has unveiled its international fixture list for the 2025/26 season, and it brings a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Perhaps most notably, there will be no home fixtures for the Proteas this year, marking a departure from the usual summer schedule. 

In an unexpected turn of events, this week saw the resignation of Proteas white-ball coach Rob Walter, adding a layer of intrigue to an already uncertain season for the national team.

Rob Walter Resigns: A Shock Announcement

The South African cricket public was taken by surprise when Rob Walter, the head coach of the Proteas white-ball side, filed his resignation on April 1st. 

While many initially speculated that it could be an April Fools' prank, the news was soon confirmed by CSA, leaving fans and pundits alike in disbelief.

Walter, whose contract is set to run until April 2025, attributed his resignation to personal reasons, and CSA has accepted it with respect. 

Enoch Nkwe, CSA's Director of National Teams and High Performance, praised Walter for his contributions over the past two years, particularly his efforts to expand the talent pool in both formats.

“Rob has done an immense job for South African cricket over the past two years," Nkwe said. 

"It is also important to recognise Rob’s commitment to expanding the talent pool across both formats. While in charge, he ensured that emerging players had the opportunity to develop and make their mark at the highest level, which will be critical for the future of the Proteas."

Under Walter's leadership, the Proteas enjoyed notable success. The most significant achievement came in 2024, when the team reached their first-ever ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final, eventually finishing as runners-up to India in Barbados. 

Walter also guided the team to the semi-finals of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 in India, and most recently, they made another semi-final appearance at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, losing to New Zealand in March.

Despite these accomplishments, speculation about Walter’s resignation emerged in light of some disappointing results, particularly at home. However, CSA made it clear that there was no external pressure influencing Walter’s decision. 

"From our side, there was no pressure," Nkwe told SportsBoom.co.za.

"We took the time to understand his personal situation and accepted his resignation with the utmost respect."

Who's Next for the Proteas?

With Walter stepping down, the big question is who will take the reins of the Proteas’ white-ball team. Among the names being floated is Shukri Conrad, the current Proteas Test coach, who has been earmarked as a potential successor. 

However, CSA has stated that the process of appointing a new coach will take time to ensure the best candidate is selected.

"We are still finalising the plan," Nkwe said. 

"The next steps will be determined soon, as there are many factors to consider. We have a busy period of white-ball cricket over the next two years as we build towards the Cricket World Cup on home soil. His successor will continue to work towards that 50-over World Cup campaign, along with next year’s T20 World Cup."

No Proteas Home Fixtures for 2025/26 Season

In what will come as a disappointment to the South African cricketing public, the Proteas will not play any home fixtures during the 2025/26 season. CSA's decision, made as part of the Future Tours Program (FTP) that has been in place for three years, has drawn mixed reactions, especially from fans who were looking forward to seeing the national team play on home soil.

CSA acknowledged the frustration this might cause, especially in terms of financial implications. 

“The FTP has been in place for three years, and we were aware of what this year would look like. We’re excited about the challenge of playing away against top cricketing nations. While we understand that this may be disappointing for fans and other key stakeholders, we’re looking forward to an exciting home summer next year.”

While there may be no home games in the 2025/26 season, the Proteas are set to embark on some exciting overseas tours, offering fans plenty to look forward to in the coming months.

Proteas to Face Zimbabwe in Exciting Series

One of the bright spots for South African cricket fans is the two-Test series between South Africa and Zimbabwe, which will take place in Zimbabwe after the conclusion of the World Test Championship (WTC) final between South Africa and Australia at Lord's in June.

The series will be followed by a T20I Tri-Series featuring Zimbabwe, South Africa, and New Zealand. This will mark an exciting return to international cricket for South Africa against their neighbouring country, with the added significance of promoting the growth of the game in Africa.

“It’s exciting! It’s been a long time and we’re looking forward to the contest, especially considering the strong history between both countries," said Nkwe. 

"This will also be an opportunity to further grow the cricketing brand in Africa. We’re confident that the Red and White Series will attract some good crowds and hopefully we’ll see more of these series in the future."