North West Dragons Head Coach Craig Alexander reflects on his journey, rebuilding the Dragons, and what it takes to inspire the next generation.

đŸŽ„ Watch the full interview below 👇 to hear the full story in his own words.

When you step from the field into the coaching box, everything changes.

In a new sit-down interview on the Cricket Fanatics Magazine YouTube channel, Northwest Dragons Head Coach opens up about his remarkable transition from player to coach, the challenges of rebuilding a struggling team, and how he’s created a culture that players now call their “home away from home.”

“The transition wasn’t easy,” he admits. “I never knew I’d be in this position so quickly, but working under Monty was a blessing. He taught me a lot and gave me room to express myself as a coach.”

Taking over a side in trouble wasn’t just about tactics – it was about changing mindsets.

“When I took over, it was more of a survival mindset – just staying in Division One. The next season, we shifted that to a thriving mindset,” he explains.

That shift began with continuity and culture. Keeping a consistent management team and redefining what Northwest cricket stood for became the foundation of their revival.

“We built our culture around character – gritty, never-say-die players who love competing. Over time, we found our niche. We might not have lifted every trophy, but we created an identity.”

For him, coaching isn’t just about drills and strategy — it’s deeply personal.

“My coaching style is relationship-based. We’re a sarcastic bunch – there’s always room for a joke – but when it’s time to work, the guys put their heads down. It’s like a family.”

He also credits the Potchefstroom environment as a key advantage in developing unity and focus.

“Poch helps us connect. It’s a small town, so we’re close, but we’ve made it work. We’ve got world-class facilities and big mindsets in a small town.”

And while T20 cricket grabs headlines, the coach remains a strong advocate for four-day cricket.

“That’s where cricket starts. Four-day cricket builds your basics and sets your foundation for every format,” he says. “We pride ourselves on it – it’s like life. It teaches patience, resilience, and balance.”

Producing players for the Proteas has also become a major point of pride for the Dragons.

“It’s a massive feather in our cap. We’ve reignited a few careers and produced new Proteas. Players know when they come here, they can still play for the national side.”

The coach also shared how open communication with Proteas coach Shukri Conrad helps ensure smooth transitions for players moving up.

“We talk about mindset and style of play. Our goal is that when players step up, there’s no big adjustment – they’re ready.”