Despite weeks left before its commencement, the air is thick with World Cup buzz. And rightly so given the prestige it holds and the competition it harbors. Amidst these preparations, Kiwis welcomed two prominent former English players to their crew. These entail the ex-wicketkeeper, James Foster, and former star batter, Ian Bell.Â
Both individuals will join the ODI front of the black caps starting from September 8 as New Zealand will take on England for a one-day series. This partnership will then proceed to India, where the 2024 World Cup will officially kick off.
What roles will the two sportsmen play for the Kiwis?
Foster, who has been a Twenty20 expert for some time, will join Kiwis as an assistant coach to Gary Stead. Previously, he had experience working for IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders. Interestingly, this wouldn’t be the 43 year old’s first time teaming up with the black caps. In 2018, he worked with the New Zealand team in UAE.
While Foster will join the team’s support staff as assistant coach and continue in the same capacity, Ian Bell will later move to the position of the batting coach during the England Bangladesh series. He has great experience when it comes to batting, given his Ashes record against the arch rivals, Australia.
The former English opener has formerly been the batting instructor for Derbyshire, Hobart Hurricanes, England U19, and more.
The inclusion of these two players is likely to boost the chances of Team New Zealand as they will aim to conquer a victory in their upcoming tournament.
Other members on the coaching front for the New Zealand cricket team
The powerful coaching lineup of Kiwis also boasts the veteran Stephen Fleming. The 50 year old will link up with the team against World Champions England and continue from here.
Although, he will wear different shoes as per the requirement of the team in terms of coaching. He has had a successful spell as an instructor, especially given his IPL Chennai Super Kings fame.
Additionally, Pakistani former coach, Saqlain Mushtaq, will enter the team as spin bowling coach. His presence in the team will especially be put into action during the Bangladesh test series. This will be the second time for the veteran bowler to team up with the Kiwi front.
The team manager Simon Insley regarding the new editions to the coaching side said:
“We’re delighted with the calibre of coaches we’ve been able to confirm to assist the Black Caps on the various tours”
Per latest interview
Per the management leader, these changes will help shoulder the responsibilities with a series of tournaments lined up before the big 50 over world championship.
In accordance to this, the primary coach Stead will sit out ahead of the ODI World Cup and he will be temporarily replaced by Luke Ronchi
