Cricket Australia have officially named Andrew McDonald as the head coach of the Australian men's team. He will replace Justin Langer.
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Cricket Australia have officially named Andrew McDonald as the head coach of the Australian men’s team. He will replace Justin Langer. The former all-rounder has earned a four-year deal with the team and will start his full-time role from the Sri Lanka tour in June as well.
McDonald, who has been serving as the assistant coach since 2019, was there with the Australian team where they registered a historic Test series win in Pakistan and he led the race. The veteran feels privileged to get the opportunity to coach the men’s side.
Andrew McDonald stated, as quoted by Perth Now: “The journey so far has been particularly pleasing, and I am honoured to be given this incredible opportunity for what is an exciting period ahead. The success of the World Cup, the Ashes Series and now Pakistan has been a testament to the hard work and leadership of Justin, Pat and Aaron along with the players and the support staff.
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He further added, “My plan is to build on the growth, depth and experience of the squad while working collectively with the group and across the game. There are many challenges in the short-term which I know excites the leadership group, the players and the staff.”
On the other hand, Test captain Pat Cummins applauded McDonald’s influence. However, he played four Tests for Australia, and he will oversee the World Cup at home later this year and help grow the Test team further too as well.
Cricket Australia Chief Nick Hockley applauded Andrew McDonald’s vision as a coach. He also recalled how the recent Pakistan tour was played and was happy to welcome him on board.
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“We interviewed several excellent candidates for this role, which is one of the most important in Australian sport. Andrew has already shown he is an outstanding head coach and the vision he outlined for the role during the appointment process was both impressive and exciting, making him our clear choice.”We are proud of the way the team played and the respect shown throughout the tour of Pakistan under the leadership of Andrew, Pat and Aaron and really pleased Andrew is taking on the role permanently,” Hockley said.
However, Andrew McDonald coached the state team to the Sheffield Shield title in 2016-17, which was his first stint. He has also coached Leicestershire County Cricket Club, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Rajasthan Royals before as well.
