SYDNEY: Andrew McDonald has been appointed as the head coach of the Australian men’s team on a permanent basis, signing a four-year contract. Cricket Australia announced.
Filling the role on an interim basis from February after Justin Langer’s resignation, McDonald oversaw Australia’s successful Test series against Pakistan, winning 1-0. The Australians also won the sole T20 in Lahore.
McDonald joined the Australian setup as an assistant in 2019 after a glittering spell of coaching in domestic cricket, winning both the Sheffield Shield and One Day competitions with Victoria, as well as the eighth edition of the Big Bash League with the Melbourne Renegades.
A part of Australia’s successful 2021 T20 World Cup campaign and Ashes series victory over the Australian summer, McDonald faces a challenging 12 months, travelling to Sri Lanka and India before their World Cup title defence in October and November.
“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,” McDonald said.
“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. I’d also like to thank my family for their support,” he added
McDonald beat out a number of candidates who interviewed for the position, considered “one of the most important in Australian sport” by Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley.
“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 (Cummins) and Aaron (Finch), and really pleased Andrew is taking on the role permanently.”
McDonald will operate as head coach across the three formats, though Executive General Manager of High Performance and National Teams Ben Oliver acknowledges that split coaching teams may be necessary in certain situations.
