The Nigeria Cricket Federation has shortlisted several candidates for the role of high-performance manager for the country’s senior men’s cricket team, popularly known as the Nigeria national cricket team.
The position became vacant after the departure of former Kenya international Steve Tikolo, who previously oversaw the development and performance structure of the national teams.
Recruitment process underway
According to the federation, the search for Tikolo’s replacement began on February 2, just a week after he stepped down from the role.
The vacancy was announced on the federation’s official social media platforms, where interested applicants were required to meet strict criteria before being considered.
Speaking on the recruitment progress, the federation’s General Manager Emeka Igwilo confirmed that several applicants have already been shortlisted.
He noted that the committee responsible for the process is currently reviewing candidates and preparing to invite them for interviews.
“People have applied and have been shortlisted, so the committee assigned is working on it. As soon as they are done, they will begin the process of conducting interviews for the final shortlisted candidates,” Igwilo said.
Mix of local and foreign candidates
The federation revealed that the shortlisted candidates include both Nigerian and foreign coaches, although the final selection will depend strictly on qualifications and experience.
Applicants were required to possess at least a Level 3 coaching qualification and between eight and ten years of coaching experience.
Additional requirements included:
- Experience in high-performance or international cricket environments
- Proven success in elite player development
- Knowledge of modern cricket methodologies and performance analytics
- Understanding of sports science and conditioning
Experience working with associate or emerging cricket nations, or with countries holding ODI member status, was listed as an advantage.
History of foreign coaches
If a foreign coach is selected again, it would continue a trend in Nigerian cricket leadership.
Before Tikolo, the Yellow Greens had been led by two other foreign coaches:
- Sean Phillips (2011–2012)
- Asanka Gurusinha (2020–2022)
However, the ongoing recruitment process could also open the door for a Nigerian coach to take charge of the national team for the first time in years.
The federation emphasised that the appointment will focus on experience, pedigree, and the ability to develop Nigeria’s cricket structure at the highest level.
