The Paarl Royals have announced the appointment of Trevor Penney as their new head coach for the 2025 SA20 season, marking a significant step in the franchise’s ambition to claim the title. Penney, who has been with the Royals family since 2022, takes over the reins from Shane Bond, who will now concentrate on his role with Rajasthan Royals in the IPL.
Penney has enjoyed considerable success with the Royals franchise, particularly during his tenure with the Barbados Royals in the CPL, where he guided the team to a runners-up finish in 2022—their best performance to date under his leadership. His promotion to head coach of Paarl Royals aligns with the Royals Sports Group’s strategy to strengthen its franchises across various leagues, including the SA20, IPL, and CPL.
In his first public comments as head coach, Penney expressed his enthusiasm about the new role. “I’m honored to take on the head coach role at Paarl Royals,” he said. “The SA20 has grown to become a key tournament on the global cricket calendar, and I’m excited to work with such a talented squad. My journey with the Royals family, both in Rajasthan and Barbados, has been immensely rewarding, and I look forward to building on the success we’ve achieved over the past few seasons.”
Penney has played a crucial role in the Paarl Royals’ growth in the SA20, with the team making it to the semi-finals in the inaugural season of 2023 and reaching the Eliminator in the 2024 campaign. With the squad bolstered by key signings ahead of the 2025 season, the Royals are hopeful of a deeper run in the competition under his guidance.
Read This:- Reeza Hendricks Tops SA20 Auction with R4.3 Million Bid as Teams Gear Up for 2025 Season
Paarl Royals captain David Miller will continue to lead the team for a third consecutive season. The experienced South African batsman has been a cornerstone of the franchise, providing leadership and crucial performances. Penney’s extensive experience in working with star players across different leagues is expected to complement Miller’s leadership and help the team challenge for the title.
The Royals made some strategic moves in the recent player auction, including the signing of veteran India wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik as their wildcard player. Additionally, young wicketkeeper Rubin Hermann was added to complete the squad. With these fresh additions, the team looks well-balanced and primed for success in the upcoming season.
Kumar Sangakkara, the Royals’ Director of Cricket, also lauded Penney’s appointment. “We are thrilled to have Trevor on board as head coach of Paarl Royals,” Sangakkara said. “His impressive record with Rajasthan Royals and Barbados Royals speaks for itself. Trevor’s experience, combined with the leadership of David Miller and the talent within the squad, gives us great confidence that we can continue to grow as a team and contend for the title in the 2025 season.”
Meanwhile, Shane Bond will focus on his role with Rajasthan Royals, where he serves as the bowling coach. Bond will work closely with Rajasthan’s head coach Rahul Dravid and batting coach Vikram Rathour as the franchise prepares for the upcoming IPL season.
With the arrival of Penney and a squad brimming with talent, the Paarl Royals look set for a promising 2025 SA20 season, as they aim to challenge for their first-ever title in the competition.
Click Here: SRH Set to Retain Klaasen, Cummins, and Abhishek for IPL 2025
