Andrew McDonald appointed Head Coach of Australia Mens team

Andrew McDonald has been appointed Head Coach of the Australia Men’s team on a four-year contract that will see him oversee the Test, ODI and T20 sides. The announcement was made two months after the departure of Justin Langer.

“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 in a statement. 

The 40-year-old has served as an assistant since 2019. The former test all-rounder has also held head coaching roles in the Indian Premier League and in English county cricket. 

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After Langer’s departure on February 5, McDonald was elevated to the position of an interim coach while Cricket Australia searched for a suitable full-time candidate. He spearheaded the historic Test series victory in Pakistan.

“We interviewed several excellent candidates for this role, which is one of the most important in Australian sport,” said Cricket Australia chief executive 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.

Also Read: Michael Vaughan backs Australia captain Pat Cummins in Justin Langer row

Speaking about his plans for the team, McDonald said, “The success of the World Cup, the Ashes Series and now Pakistan has been testament to the hard work and leadership of Justin, Pat and Aaron [Finch] along with the players and the support staff.”

“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.”

Also Read: Former Australia coach Justin Langer, with integrity and dignity, moves on to the next chapter

Meanwhile, CA’s General Manager of High Performance and National Teams Ben Oliver said that opportunities would be given to assistants when the new Head Coach needs to rest from certain tours.

“Andrew has been appointed as Head Coach in all formats, although some white-ball series may be led by an assistant given the significant workload ahead and the opportunity to continue to develop our coaches and players,” Oliver said.