September 6, 2024

The Sydney Sixers Welcome Matthew Mott as an Assistant Coach

Matthew Mott, former head coach of England’s men’s and Australia’s women’s teams, has joined the Sydney Sixers as assistant coach on a three-year contract. As an assistant coach, Mott will work closely with head coach Greg Shipperd, supporting him in various aspects of team management and player development. Mott will be taking over from Cameron White, who has moved to the Melbourne Renegades as head coach.

Mott’s coaching resume is impressive: he led the Australian women’s team to ODI World Cup victories in 2022 and T20 World Cup in 2018 and 2020. He also guided England’s men to a T20 World Cup title in 2022.

Returning to Sydney, where he started his coaching career with the New South Wales Blues in 2007, Mott looks forward to contributing his extensive experience to the Sixers. His return to the city where he began his coaching journey is expected to bring a sense of familiarity and a wealth of knowledge to the Sixers, potentially enhancing their performance.

“I’m delighted to join back up with the Sydney Sixers,” Mott said. “Having started my coaching journey in Sydney many years ago, it’s a place that evokes great memories and a comforting sense of familiarity, which I’m looking forward to. The idea of being an assistant to Greg Shipperd, whom I greatly respect, appealed to me.”

Sydney Sixers general manager Rachael Haynes stated that the franchise should appoint a coach of Mott’s caliber.

“We couldn’t be more pleased to have ‘Motty’ committed for the next three years with the club. It’s a no-brainer when the opportunity arises to bring a coach of Motty’s caliber into your ranks. We know what a fantastic resource he will be for our playing group.”

On December 16, the Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Renegades will play their first BBL match, marking the beginning of the Big Bash League season. This match holds significant importance as it sets the tone for the season and provides an early opportunity for the teams to showcase their form and strategies.

Rathour and Herath Join the New Zealand Support Staff for the Afghanistan Test

Vikram Rathour, former India batting coach, is set to join New Zealand’s support staff for their upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan in Noida. Rangana Herath will also be part of the team as spin bowling coach for this Test and the following two Test series against Sri Lanka.

Rathour, who was with the Rahul Dravid-led coaching team that secured India’s T20 World Cup victory, brings valuable experience from his playing days in the 1990s and his role as a national selector. Herath, the highly accomplished left-arm spinner, steps in for Saqlain Mushtaq, who withdrew to accept a position with the Pakistan Cricket Board.

The anticipation is high as Rathour and Herath are expected to substantially impact New Zealand’s preparations and performance in these pivotal matches.

Rathour’s expertise in batting and strategic insights will help refine the team’s approach and technique. At the same time, Herath’s vast experience and knowledge as a spin bowler will be crucial for tackling the challenges posed by spin-friendly conditions. Their contributions are expected to bolster New Zealand’s strategies, strengthen their gameplay, and provide invaluable guidance during these critical fixtures.

“We’re really excited to introduce Rangana and Vikram into our Test group,” New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said. “In the cricket world, both men are highly esteemed, and I do not doubt that our players are eager to pick their brains.

“For our three left-arm orthodox spinners in particular, Ajaz, Mitch and Rachin, having the chance to work with Rangana across three Tests in the sub-continent will be hugely beneficial,” added Stead. “Rangana has taken over 100 Test wickets in Galle which is the venue of our two Tests against Sri Lanka and so his knowledge of that venue will be priceless.”

New Zealand’s one-off Test against Afghanistan kicks off on September 9. This will be followed by the first Test against Sri Lanka, starting September 18, and the second on September 30. Both series are part of the World Test Championship, where New Zealand currently holds the third spot, making these matches of utmost importance.