Ricky Ponting, candidate for the Proteas coaching position

A shortlist for the position of Proteas coach has been announced, Cricket South Africa chief executive Gerald Majola has reportedly said. (Our April Fool's...)

Corrie Van Zyl tenure as coach ended with South Africa's exit from the World Cup. 

“A shortlist with six names has been drawn up, but only five names can be released as one of the candidates is still involved at the World Cup tournament,” Majola was quoted as saying.

This has fuelled speculation that the final candidate could be India coach Gary Kirsten. As it stands the candidates are controversially, Ricky Ponting, now ex-captain of Australia and New Zealand bowling coach Allan Donald.

"Having successfully exploited the Proteas weak points in many matches, I feel confident that I could bring the team to new heights," Ponting was quoted as saying.

Donald has confirmed that the New Zealand Cricket Council (NZCC) is negotiating with him to stay on beyond the tournament.

The other candidates are Proteas assistant coach Vincent Barnes, Dave Nosworthy of the Lions and Richard Pybus of the Cape Cobras. 

“Our panel has started the interviews and we hope to make the appointment by June,” said Majola.

The Proteas’ next commitment is in October when they play Australia in Twenty20, one-day and Test series.

-source SAPA