Cricket Namibia is pleased to announce that Craig Williams, a national cricketing icon has been appointed as the new Head Coach of the Namibian National Men’s Cricket Team, the FNB Eagles.
This announcement marks a new era in Namibian cricket — led by a man who has dedicated his life to the growth and success of Namibian cricket. From his debut in 2007 to his retirement in 2022, Craig Williams represented Namibia with dedication, passion, and class. Now, he returns to the national side not as a player, but as the visionary coach entrusted with leading the Eagles to even greater heights.
Cricket Namibia Chief Executive Officer, Johan Muller:
“Appointing Craig Williams as the new head coach of the FNB Eagles marks an exciting new chapter for our men’s national team. Craig brings not only world-class cricketing expertise but a deep understanding of our players, our culture, and our ambitions. With a newly assembled, highly skilled coaching staff, we are entering a new era—one focused on qualifying for our fourth T20 World Cup and proudly representing Namibia on home soil during the 2027 ICC Men’s World Cup. We are confident that under Craig’s leadership, the Eagles will continue to soar.”
Since retiring, Williams has remained deeply involved in the development of cricket in Namibia — coaching young talent through his personal academy and invested in training facilities for cricketers. His loyalty to the game has made him an obvious and perfect fit for this role.
Cricket Namibia Board Member, Dannel van der Walt:
“We would like to sincerely acknowledge the exceptional contribution of our outgoing head coach, Mr. Pierre de Bruyn, who has served Cricket Namibia with distinction over the past six and a half years. Since his appointment in 2018, Pierre has played a pivotal role in our rise on the international stage — from achieving ODI status to leading the team to three ICC T20 World Cups and securing historic wins against two full member nations. His impact on the growth and foundation of cricket in Namibia has been truly transformative.”
“We at Cricket Namibia are so proud of Craig Williams — we’ve come a very long way. He has served this nation and cricket in Namibia since he was a youngster. He has played 400 games in all formats for the national team with 15,000 runs behind his name — an exceptional player, and he is a man of the soil. Therefore, it is an honour to have Craig Williams appointed as the Head Coach, knowing that he shares our values, and knowing that he has the full capacity and skill set to take the FNB Eagles to new heights. We know that together we will continue to build a globally competitive, professional, values-based, and inclusive sport of choice in Namibia.”
Speaking on his appointment, Craig Williams said:
“It is an incredible honour to return to the national team, this time as Head Coach. Representing Namibia in any capacity is a privilege, and to now lead the FNB Eagles is something I’m truly excited about. Cricket Namibia is doing fantastic things; from the new stadium to the High Performance Centre — and to have the full support of the board and staff means a great deal to me. I’m really looking forward to starting this new journey alongside such a committed team.”
“It was an easy decision to come back; my family is incredibly proud and supportive. Coaching at this level is a big commitment and I am 100% invested. I represented Namibia as a player, and now I’m ready to give my all in this next chapter as Head Coach.”
Craig brings a blend of tactical insight, homegrown leadership, and a fierce drive to see Namibia continue its rise on the global stage.
The legend is back. And he’s leading from the front — once again.
