Tim Paine Named New Adelaide Strikers Coach

Marco Monteverde from Newswire

Tim Paine, a former captain of the Australian Test team, has been appointed as the Adelaide Strikers’ next head coach, replacing Jason Gillespie. Paine’s appointment is seen as a significant step in his comeback to Australian cricket after nearly three years away from the spotlight. Gillespie, who had been at the helm of the Strikers, has left to assume a coaching role with Pakistan, creating the opportunity for Paine to step into the top job.

Paine’s return to a prominent role in the sport marks a new chapter in his career. In November 2021, he resigned as Australia’s Test captain just before the Ashes series, following the public revelation of inappropriate behavior four years earlier. This personal and professional setback resulted in his temporarily stepping back from cricket. Nevertheless, he has a new beginning as the Strikers’ head coach.

Having already been part of the Strikers’ setup as an assistant coach last summer, Paine brings familiarity with the team and its culture. His promotion to head coach on a two-year contract is seen as a natural progression, given his vast experience in international cricket and recent work in coaching. As he takes on this leadership role, Paine will aim to guide the Strikers to success in the upcoming BBL seasons while building on the foundation laid by Gillespie.

“After spending time in Adelaide last year I believe the Strikers team and the whole of South Australian cricket has huge potential and I’m looking forward to being part of taking it forward and winning a few trophies,” said Paine, who had reportedly been vying with former national coach Darren Lehmann for the job.

“Having been on the losing side when the Strikers defeated Hobart Hurricanes to claim their first title win in BBL07, I can vouch for the fantastic atmosphere created by the fans at Adelaide Oval.

“And the backing the boys received last season was a large factor in the success we experienced in the second half of BBL13, so we’re working hard to build on that momentum in the coming summer.

“I believe we have an immensely talented and versatile squad which we will finalise over the next few weeks.”

Tim Paine, 39, had a distinguished career as Australia’s Test captain, leading the national team in 23 Test matches. His tenure as captain began in 2018, following the infamous ball-tampering scandal, where Paine was brought in to restore integrity and stability to Australian cricket. Under his leadership, the team saw several notable performances. Still, his captaincy ended abruptly in November 2021 when he stepped down after details of an incident involving improper conduct, dating back four years, came to light.

Paine’s decision to resign was significant in Australian cricket, especially as it came just before the highly anticipated 2021 Ashes series. His exit from the captaincy marked the end of his role in the national team, and soon after, Paine withdrew from all forms of competitive cricket. In March 2023, he officially announced his retirement from playing, concluding a career that spanned nearly two decades as a wicketkeeper and batsman.

Following his retirement, Paine transitioned into coaching, bringing his wealth of experience to support the next generation of cricketers. He became an assistant coach with the Australia A team, contributing to developing emerging talent. His knowledge of the game and leadership skills have positioned him as a valuable figure in Australian cricket’s coaching ranks, eventually leading to his recent appointment as head coach of the Adelaide Strikers.

Picture: Steve Pohlner

South Australia Cricket Association chief executive officer Charlie Hodgson said: “Tim’s leadership qualities, tactical insights and ability to foster a strong and united team environment within the Strikers’ playing group was a significant factor in the team’s success in reaching last summer’s Challenger final (in the BBL playoffs).

“We are also delighted with his clear vision to ensure the Strikers remain closely involved and strongly aligned to South Australia’s cricket development programs, and to further enhance the club’s standing among the State’s loyal and passionate cricket fans.”

The Strikers kick off their new BBL season on December 17 against the Sydney Thunder in Canberra.

Cheer on your favorite player! Visit our site to show them your support and make a difference.

Katarzyna Nowak

Katarzyna Nowak is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience in editorial content, news reporting, and cricket sportsbook app reviews. As an author for Top Cricket News, she combines her deep understanding of the sports betting industry with a passion for cricket, delivering insightful and accurate content that keeps readers informed and engaged.