CAPE TOWN – UCT Rugby head coach Tom Dawson-Squibb believes he is someone who is not afraid of a challenge.
Dawson-Squibb has been roped in to assist the South African men’s cricket team, the Proteas as the Performance Coach for the duration of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
The Ikey Tigers coach is on a contract until the end of the world cup, with the world set to be played in India from 05 October – 19 November.
“I was in contact with Rob Walter and we had the odd conversation about what he needs in the team. I then met with Shukri Conrad and Enoch Nkwe and things kind of moved from there,” said Dawson-Squibb.
“I’m feeling energized. It is a task, but I won’t measure myself on results only. That would be foolish. This is a large system and I think if we can start to shift the team in a direction that is even better then we will have done well.
“Ultimately we want to win big games, series and trophies. In order to do that I think we have to make players feel inspired to be a part of this team and understand how to get the best out of themselves. That is a journey.”
Dawson-Squibb led the Tigers to the Varsity Cup final this year where the Cape-based side lost to NWU Eagles at the Fanie du Toit Sports.
He says he is still much committed to this job as UCT coach, in what he described as the ‘greatest job in the world’.
And he says he is a huge fan of both sports, rugby and cricket.
“I’ve worked in cricket before at school, university and professional level so this is not new for me. I play different roles currently in cricket and rugby,” he said.
“I lead a rugby team, whilst I assist a cricket team. Both come with different challenges and it’s important for me to be aware of what the team most requires from me.
“I’m a huge fan of both sports and love what they both bring.”