In anticipation of the 2023 ODI World Cup and a packed schedule, New Zealand has augmented its coaching team by enlisting the expertise of former England cricket players Ian Bell and Stephen Fleming. These accomplished individuals will contribute their insights to the team’s preparation for upcoming challenges.
The coaching staff enhancements also include the presence of former Pakistan coach Saqlain Mushtaq, who will undertake the role of spin coach for the Bangladesh Test series in December. This decision follows his prior engagement with the team during the white-ball tour of Pakistan in April.
Ian Bell, renowned for his five Ashes victories during his playing career, will step into a coaching role after transitioning from the field in 2020. He will assume the position of assistant coach for the forthcoming T20I series against England, which commences later this month. Bell will then take over the mantle of batting coach from Luke Ronchi for the four-game ODI series set to occur from September 8 to 15. He will further continue in the role for the three ODIs in Bangladesh, scheduled from September 21 to 26.
James Foster, a former Test wicketkeeper and the current assistant coach at Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, will join the New Zealand coaching setup as an assistant coach for the England ODI series. Foster’s contribution extends to the entire World Cup campaign slated for October and November. Notably, he had previously assisted the New Zealand team during their stint in the UAE in 2018.
The coaching lineup will also witness the return of Stephen Fleming, who previously coached the team and is set for his second stint. After fulfilling his responsibilities with the Southern Brave men in The Hundred, Fleming will lend his expertise to the ODI series against England, occurring from September 8 to 15.
Additionally, Gary Stead, the head coach, will briefly hand over his responsibilities to Luke Ronchi during the Bangladesh Test series in November and December, as he focuses on New Zealand’s home summer preparations beginning on December 16.
The comprehensive coaching setup showcases a blend of experience and strategic acumen to guide New Zealand through their upcoming ventures, including the challenging 2023 ODI World Cup.
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-IANS
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