This follows the departure of Lotli Sesele, who left the team at the end of a challenging 2024/25 season to take up the head coaching role at the Garden Route Badgers.

Ruan Dercksen has been named as the new assistant coach. However, he is no stranger to the Knights’ setup or their players. Dercksen previously served as the team’s strength and conditioning coach and holds a Level 3 coaching qualification, a combination that makes him an ideal candidate for the position.

JP Triegaardt. Photo: Morgan Piek

His familiarity with the players, along with his established working relationship with head coach JP Triegaardt, has helped ensure a smooth transition.

Triegaardt, who is currently overseeing the team’s pre-season preparations, told OFM Sport that Dercksen’s appointment is a perfect fit – both for himself and the team.

“Just in terms of the role definition, losing Lotli to SWD presents a great opportunity for him to grow as a coach and gain valuable experience as a head coach,” said Triegaardt.

“I trust that he will thrive and really express himself in the way he knows best. I wish him all the best in his new role. Ruan Dercksen will serve as my assistant coach for the season. 

“His appointment brings a wealth of experience – not only as a strength and conditioning coach but also as a qualified Level 3 coach. There aren’t many coaches in the country with that combination of qualifications.

“He might even be the only one besides Rob Walter – the former Proteas coach – who has both credentials. So I’m very happy to go into the season with Ruan by my side. 

Lotli Sesele. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We’ve worked together for the past five years, and there’s a strong sense of trust and camaraderie between us. We understand what our goals are, both as a team and as a management group. 

“It’s a great opportunity for Ruan, and I have full faith in his ability to help steer the ship in the right direction.”

Meanwhile, veteran Proteas spinner Aaron Phangiso – who captained the Knights on occasion last season – has announced his retirement from professional cricket. He will, however, remain in Bloemfontein and has taken up the role of Colts team coach, a move welcomed by Triegaardt.

Aaron Phangiso. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Phangiso has been appointed as the Colts’ coach. He won’t be playing for us this season as he’s fully committed to that coaching role,” Triegaardt confirmed.

“I’m very pleased about that. He brings a wealth of experience that will be incredibly valuable at that level. His insights, especially from having played for the Proteas, will benefit the young players as they prepare to step into the professional game.”

The Knights have also announced a strong and experienced squad for the new season. While most of the players have stayed on, a few have moved on, including Dian Forrester, Lesego Senokwane, Garnett Tarr, and Aubrey Swanepoel.

Knights squad for the 2025/26 season: Cole Abrahams, Patrick Botha, Gihahn Cloete, Isaac Dikgale, Seth Fleddermaus, Ruan Haasbroek, Sithembile Langa, Sisanda Magala, Dane Piedt, Jacques Snyman, Malusi Siboto, Johan van Dyk, Tiaan van Vuuren

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh