Mickey Arthur will be the first foreign head coach of Australia’s national cricket team when he takes over ahead of the two-Test series against New Zealand starting December 1.
Cricket Australia announced Tuesday that Arthur, a former South Africa head coach, had been appointed to remain in charge of Australia’s team until after the 2015 World Cup, which Australia and New Zealand are hosting.
Arthur replaces Tim Nielsen, who opted not to apply for the position after an extensive independent review earlier this year in the wake of Australia’s home Ashes series loss to England recommended a major overhaul of the national cricket administration.
“I am honoured and privileged to have another chance to coach an international team, particularly a team of the ilk of Australia,” Arthur said. “I think I bring a fresh, unblinkered eye to the role after plotting against Australia when coaching South Africa and having now worked within the Australian system with the Warriors.
“Australia has an abundance of cricket talent and I am confident the talent is there to ensure Australia is successful.”
Arthur wouldn’t be drawn immediately on team selection but said he didn’t expect to encounter any particular difficulties as the first foreigner to coach Australia’s most beloved summer sports team.
“I don’t think it will matter,” he said. “You get respect straight away when you get the job but you’ve actually got to earn it. I believe I can earn that with any team I’ve been with.
“Ultimately, I guess you want a guy that is perceived to be the best for the job, irrespective of the nationality.”
Newspaper:The Hindu, 22nd Nov
