Domingo plans to build on S. Africa cricketers' success

JOHANNESBURG (AFP) - Russell Domingo, who was on Saturday appointed as South Africa's next head coach, said he planned to build on the structures put in place by incumbent Gary Kirsten.

Domingo, 38, is assistant coach to Kirsten, who announced on Friday he would not be renewing his two-year contract which expires at the end of July.

"I know what David Moyes is feeling," said Domingo, comparing the challenge of taking over from a successful coach as being similar to Moyes' appointment to succeed Alex Ferguson as Manchester United manager.

Under Kirsten, South Africa became the number one team in the world Test rankings.

"Hopefully I can continue to take the side to another level," said Domingo. "I know we have achieved the top in Test cricket but there's still lots of other work to be done. I hope to continue and enhance the structures that Gary has put in place and make sure the team strives to continue to be the best in the world."

Kirsten's last assignment will be to take the South African team to the ICC Champions Trophy in England and Wales in June. Domingo will be in charge when South Africa play a one-day series in Sri Lanka in July and August.

Cricket South Africa president Chris Nenzani said Domingo's appointment was logical. "We said when Russell was appointed as Gary's assistant we wanted to have continuity and a system where there was succession. We want to continue the culture that is there."

Nenzani said the terms of Domingo's contract had not yet been negotiated but it was likely to be a two-year appointment, which would include the 2015 Cricket World Cup. He said Domingo would be given a free hand in the appointment of support staff.