Tim Paine reveals appointment as Australia A coach for Sri Lanka series
Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine confirmed on Friday, June 20, that he has been appointed head coach of the Australia A team. The former wicketkeeper-batter will now focus on developing the next generation of cricketers expected to replace the aging core across formats.Paine, who took charge of the national side in the wake of the sandpaper scandal, was credited with steadying the ship during a turbulent phase, paving the way for leaders like Pat Cummins to usher in a new era of success.advertisementHaving previously worked as an assistant coach with Australia A and the national women's team, Paine has also held media roles. However, he revealed that he will now step away from broadcasting to fully commit to his new coaching responsibilities.
"It's time to spread my wings. I've been working with Australia A as an assistant coach, and the opportunity has come up for me to be the head coach. I feel like it's a hard balancing act to pursue a coaching career and talk in the media," Paine told SEN radio."The Australia 'A' programme is very exciting, there's a lot of young talent to work with. It's something I really enjoy doing. I'm very lucky and I'm really looking forward to the next part of my journey," he commented.The former skipper will continue his role with the women's team and the Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League.TRANSITION COMING UP IN AUSTRALIAN CRICKET?advertisementWith Paine's appointment for the A side, he will have a big role in how the future of Australian cricket pans out. Questions have already been fired at the current senior team after their loss at the World Test Championship final at Lord's.With an ageing squad, Australia could soon see the inclusion of more fresh faces as they look to maintain their dominance in the longest format.The selectors have already made bold moves, dropping Marnus Labuschagne and calling up Sean Abbott to replace the injured Steve Smith.However, it remains to be seen whether these new additions will get enough game time to establish themselves in Test cricket. Following their defeat in the World Test Championship final, Australia will begin their new season with a three-match Test tour of the West Indies, starting June 25.Must Watch
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