“I developed a relationship at Leicestershire as a player and the opportunity to return in the role of head coach is one I am looking forward to”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Leicestershire have appointed former Australia all-rounder Andrew McDonald as their new head coach for next year’s county season.

McDonald, who played for Leicestershire in 2010 and 2011, is unlikely to represent them next year, especially after the club signed his compatriot, Clint McKay, as one of their overseas players.

“I developed a relationship at Leicestershire as a player and the opportunity to return in the role of head coach is one I am looking forward to,” McDonald said. “To take on the challenge of creating a successful, but also importantly sustainable cricket programme, while fostering the development of an emerging group of young players, is an extremely exciting prospect for me.

“Coaching has always been something I have harboured ambitions to pursue. I think that going into coaching at a relatively young age, while still involved in cricket in the way I am in Australia as a player, is a very progressive move for both myself and Leicestershire.”

Leicestershire’s interim chief executive, Andrew Boyce, added: “Andrew was a great influence on the younger lads as a player here. He helped us to get over the line on numerous occasions. Andrew was a good performer on the pitch and a very good person to have in the dressing room. When somebody is able to have time to make decisions in the cauldron environment in T20, you know you have a clear thinker. Andrew has always been able to make an assessment of what is required to win a game and never panics.

“Andrew is currently playing a key role at South Australia and has lots of experience in the Big Bash. His fellow Australians look up to him and respect him. That says a lot about his character and standing in the game.”