Northern Territory Cricket is pleased to announce the appointment of former South African international Johan Botha as NT Strike Head Coach for the 2026 Study NT Top End T20 Series.
Botha brings extensive international and domestic coaching experience, having worked across some of the world’s leading cricket competitions, including the Big Bash League, Australian domestic cricket and global franchise tournaments.
Most recently, Botha served as Head Coach of the Brisbane Heat and Queensland Bulls. During his first season in charge, he led Queensland to the 2024–25 Sheffield Shield Final.
As a player, Botha represented South Africa across all three formats and captained the national team in One-Day International and T20 International cricket. He finished his international career with five Tests, 78 ODIs and 40 T20Is.
Botha also played extensively in domestic and franchise competitions around the world, recording 90 first-class appearances, 184 List A matches and 222 T20 matches during his career.
NT Cricket Head of Cricket Nick Winter said Botha’s appointment was a significant boost for the NT Strike program.
“To attract a coach with Johan’s credentials is a major coup for the Top End T20 Series and Northern Territory Cricket.
“Johan has a tremendous understanding of T20 cricket and what it takes to build successful teams at the highest level. His experience as an international player, captain and coach will be invaluable to our players and the broader NT Cricket program.”
Johan Botha said he was looking forward to experiencing the tournament for the first time.
“This will be my first involvement in the Top End T20 Series. I have heard great things about the tournament from many people, and I cannot wait to see the talent on display and contribute to its continued growth in 2026.
“I am looking forward to getting to Darwin and working with the NT players. I hope to contribute to strong performances throughout the Series while also supporting the longer-term success of the NT Cricket program.”
Botha will arrive in Darwin on Sunday, 16 August, to lead the NT Strike as the team looks to build on its 2025 campaign, when it finished with three wins from six matches.
The 2026 Study NT Top End T20 Series will be played across Darwin from 21 to 30 August. To purchase tickets, view the full fixture or find out where to watch the Series, visit the NT Cricket website.