Cricket
Fletcher joins Proteas
2008-11-17 16:29
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Duncan Fletcher (Gallo Images)
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Johannesburg - Former England coach Duncan Fletcher is to join the Proteas on a consultancy basis as the South African cricket team intensifies its build-up to the approaching Test series against Bangladesh and Australia.
Cricket South Africa announced on Monday that Cape Town-based Fletcher had linked up with the Proteas in Bloemfontein with immediate effect as they prepare for the Test series against Bangladesh. The first Test starts on Wednesday with the second match taking place at Centurion from the following Wednesday.
Fletcher will then travel with the Test squad for the first Test against Australia at Perth in mid-December.
Fletcher is one of the most respected and experienced coaches in the game, having masterminded England's home Ashes series triumph over Australia in 2005. He has also excelled at domestic level with Glamorgan in the England county championship and with Western Province where he launched the international careers of many future Proteas' stars including Jacques Kallis and Herschelle Gibbs.
As a player he captained Zimbabwe at the 1983 World Cup in England.
“Duncan will spend three days with us before each of the two Tests against Bangladesh and will then spend 12 days with us in Australia ahead of the opening Test at Perth,” commented national coach Mickey Arthur. “He will add a great deal of value to our plans and preparations, particularly with his experience of having been a successful coach against Australia.
“I am a great believer in refreshing the squad,” added Arthur, “whether it be on the playing or management side and he will help us find another five percent to take us up to the next level.”
Fletcher will fill a similar consultancy role next season when the Proteas' major assignments are the ICC Champions' Trophy tournament and the home Test series against England.
Gerald Majola, CSA CEO said: “Cricket South Africa is determined to ensure that the Proteas are properly prepared for the Castle Test series against Bangladesh and the forthcoming tour to Australia.
“As part of this programme, we have asked Duncan Fletcher to assist the coaching staff.
“This move was mooted by the team management and says much for their maturity and eagerness to use the best preparation methods available.
“Duncan Fletcher is well-respected by the Proteas and his knowledge of Australian cricket will be of inestimable value.
“CSA is grateful that he has accepted this offer to assist and we look forward to his input”.