Ilze van der Westhuizen appointed as Cricket Development Manager

Guernsey Cricket is delighted to announce the appointment of Ilze van der Westhuizen as its new Cricket Development Manager, with Ilze having recently arrived in Guernsey to take up the role.

Ilze van der Westhuizen

Ilze brings with her over 20 years’ experience in cricket across playing, coaching and development roles in South Africa, England and Ireland, with a strong track record in junior participation, women's and girls’ cricket, schools’ programmes and high-performance pathways.

A former provincial and county cricketer, Ilze has represented teams including Western Province B, Boland Women and Surrey, and has held senior coaching and development roles with Stellenbosch University, Cricket Boland, Holywood Cricket Club (Northern Ireland) and the Chance to Shine programme in England. Ilze was most recently the Head Coach of the Maties Women’s team and has worked extensively within university and community cricket environments.

In her new role, Ilze will lead Guernsey Cricket’s junior development programmes, including cricket for children aged nine and under, schools cricket, women and girls’ participation, inclusion initiatives and the management of junior competitions. Ilze will also play a key role in strengthening player pathways and supporting the development of coaches and volunteers across the island.

Ilze has also assumed the role of the Senior Women’s National Team Head Coach.

Speaking on her appointment, Ilze said:

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining Guernsey Cricket and becoming part of the local cricket community. Guernsey has a strong cricketing identity and a clear vision for growth. I’m passionate about creating positive, enjoyable experiences for young people, growing the women and girls’ game, and helping players, coaches and clubs reach their full potential.”

Richard Headington, Guernsey Cricket’s Chief Operating Officer, added:

“Ilze brings outstanding experience and energy to this role. Her background in both participation and performance cricket, particularly in women’s and junior development, aligns perfectly with our strategic priorities. We are delighted to welcome her to Guernsey and look forward to the impact she will have across the game.”

Ilze will work closely with clubs, schools, the Guernsey Sports Commission and community partners to increase participation, improve access to cricket and ensure strong development pathways across all sections of the game.