MBABANE – Eswatini captain Mbali Dlamini is heading to Tanzania for a major international coaching development opportunity.
Dlamini will represent Eswatini at the ICC Future Leadership Programme for Female Coaches, which runs from August 29 to September 6 as part of the 2026–2027 programme.
The initiative brings together aspiring female coaches and leaders in cricket, giving participants access to international expertise, mentorship and opportunities to strengthen their coaching and leadership skills.
For Dlamini, the programme represents another significant chapter in a cricket journey that has seen her serve as captain of the Eswatini National Women’s Cricket Team since 2020.
Her selection follows her progress through the ICC coaching development pathway, earning her an opportunity to learn from some of the leading figures in women’s cricket.
Among those involved in her development will be Dinesha Devnarain, head coach of the South Africa Under 19 Women’s Team and National Academy.
The mentorship will expose Dlamini to different coaching approaches while allowing her to develop her technical knowledge and leadership skills in an international environment.
CHANCE TO MAKE HISTORY
The programme could also see Dlamini break new ground in Eswatini cricket.
Successful completion is expected to earn her the ICC Level 2 Coaching Certificate. If achieved, Dlamini would become the first coach, and first female coach, in the history of the Eswatini Cricket Association to attain the qualification.
The milestone would be significant for a country seeking to grow its cricket structures and develop a stronger pipeline of coaches, particularly within the women’s game.
Dlamini’s experience could also prove valuable beyond her own career, with the knowledge gained in Tanzania potentially contributing to the development of players and future coaches back home.
Her participation has been made possible through financial support from the Eswatini Sport and Recreation Council and the Eswatini Olympics and Commonwealth Games Association.
The support has enabled Dlamini to take up an opportunity that places Eswatini within an international coaching development programme focused on the future of women’s cricket.
For Dlamini, the immediate task is to make the most of the week in Tanzania. For Eswatini cricket, it could be the beginning of a new chapter in women’s coaching.
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